The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has warned individuals planning and fanning violence to desist from creating panic against the public or risk arrest.
With the anti-government protests set to take place on three consecutive days since President William Ruto was inaugurated, the DCI, on Tuesday, July 18, raised the alarm on a video that was circulated widely, detailing plans to counter the demonstrations.
In the viral video, young men, chanting while holding crude weapons, are incentivised with Ksh1,000 each to reportedly wreak havoc.
DCI underlined that the video spread misinformation and incitement to violence through the abuse of social media platforms disguised as promoting freedom of expression.
"Regrettably, this has caused fear and panic among peace-loving Kenyans. Whereas freedom of expression is guaranteed in our Constitution, its enjoyment should not be used as a tool to promote and justify mayhem and lawlessness," DCI warned.
It added that online violence instigators will be charged under Sections 22 and 23 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act of 2018.
The sections warn against false publications and the publication of false information, stipulating a fine not exceeding Ksh25 million shillings or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 20 years or both.
"DCI shall continue to execute its mandate as prescribed by law and will process any lawbreakers for prosecution without fear, favour or ill will.
"We further commend all law-abiding Kenyans who have been supporting us in our quest for a peaceful society by abiding by the tenets of law and order," DCI stated, urging the public to desist from heightening the political temperatures.
Furthermore, DCI assured the public that the government will ensure their safety amidst the scare and threats.
However, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome, claimed that the organizers of the purported demonstrations did seek permits to picket contrary to legal requirements.
It thus pledged to derail the demonstrations, which it argued was a conduit for the destruction of property, injuries, and loss of lives.
"While Article 37 of the Constitution gives the right to assemble, demonstrate, and picket, lessons from recent similar demonstrations clearly indicate that such demonstrations are nothing but a threat to national security.
"In line with NPS mandate to maintain law and order, protect life and property, and preserve peace, we wish to inform the public that any demonstrations that will be held in any part of Kenya on Wednesday, July 19, will be dealt with promptly in accordance with the law," NPS added in a statement dated 18.
In other developments, over 10 diplomats, including US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman, were concerned about the continued loss of property and lives.
The diplomats urged President William Ruto and opposition leader, Raila Odinga, to sign a truce and champion peace and tranquillity. Raila had promised a mother of all demonstrations, while Ruto vowed to suppress demonstrations.
"We recognise the daily hardship faced by many Kenyans and urge all parties to table their concerns through meaningful dialogue and resolve their differences peacefully to build the nation together, ensuring no further loss of life," read part of the statement.
