The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested a 32-year-old man over alleged inciteful remarks targeting Burundian nationals living and working in Kenya.
The suspect was arrested by detectives from DCI Buruburu following remarks he allegedly made during a Bunge la Mwananchi gathering at Jacaranda Grounds in Kayole.
According to the DCI, the remarks were captured on video and widely circulated on social media, prompting detectives to launch investigations.
Police said the statements appeared to target Burundian nationals engaged in various economic activities, including small-scale businesses and employment, raising concerns that they could fuel ethnic hatred, hostility and violence.
“Detectives drawn from DCI Buruburu have arrested a 32-year-old man over remarks intended to incite ethnic hatred, hostility and violence against Burundian nationals living and working in Kenya,” the DCI said.
The suspect is expected to be arraigned in court as investigators continue examining the circumstances and intent behind the remarks.
He could face charges under Section 13(1)(a), read together with Section 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act, alongside any other offences established during the investigation.
The arrest comes amid heightened tensions over foreign nationals operating small businesses in Kenya.
The Government has warned Kenyans against harassing, threatening or intimidating foreigners, insisting that enforcement of immigration, work permit, business registration and licensing requirements must be carried out within the law.
President William Ruto has also announced a 90-day window for foreign traders to regularise their immigration and business documentation before stricter enforcement begins.
The Government said the exercise would be conducted by relevant agencies in consultation with the embassies of affected countries.
Authorities have, however, made it clear that individuals found harassing or interfering with foreign nationals or their businesses will face legal action.
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