DCI eats humble pie amid barrage of anger and criticism from social media

The apology comes a day after the DCI published on its Twitter page pictures alleged to be those of Azimio protesters, who reportedly destroyed property during last Monday's demonstrations in Nairobi.

"The mix-up was partly occasioned by the overwhelming information that we had received via the #FichuakwaDCI online platform regarding the reported incidents of violence. We are working towards rectifying the same and maintaining public confidence," said the investigative agency.

Some of the pictures the DCI published of alleged suspects were taken in 2008, 2015 and 2022. Other pictures were taken in Burundi, and not Kenya.

Some of the photos that had been released by DCI alleging to be some of the individuals captured on camera as they perpetrated violence during Azimio la Umoja demos. [DCI Twitter]

"In this regard, the Directorate cautions members of the public that while the right to assemble, picket and petition is enshrined in our Constitution, these rights should be exercised with civility and should not infringe on the rights of others," read part of the post.

It said the suspects whose images have been loaded on the internet will be held accountable for their acts.

"More images are being gathered and shall be updated. The individuals will face charges ranging from robbery with violence, malicious damage to public property and assault among other allied offences," said the DCI.

Inspector General of Police, Japheth Koome, said police arrested 238 protestors during the demonstrations in Nairobi and Kisumu counties.

Among them was Azimio's Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo and his National Assembly counterpart Opiyo Wandayi, who were later released.