Outspoken activist Boniface Mwangi was arrested on Saturday at his Lukenya home in Machakos County over alleged links to terror facilitation, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed.
According to a statement released by the DCI, Mwangi is being investigated for allegedly aiding the organization and coordination of violent protests linked to the ongoing Gen Z movement. Authorities claim they recovered two unused tear gas canisters from his residence during the raid.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect may have been in possession of equipment intended to incite public unrest,” read part of the DCI statement. “The tear gas canisters recovered will be subjected to forensic analysis.”
The arrest has sparked sharp reactions from civil society groups, human rights defenders, and Kenyans online, who have accused the state of intimidation and abuse of power.
Mwangi, a well-known human rights crusader and photojournalist, has been vocal in supporting youth-led demonstrations against corruption, poor governance, and the high cost of living. His arrest comes amid a wave of nationwide protests organized largely through social media by young Kenyans demanding accountability from the government.
Mwangi’s lawyers have called the arrest unlawful and politically motivated, demanding his immediate release.
“The possession of tear gas by a civilian raises questions, but this is clearly an attempt to silence dissent,” said one of his lawyers.
Mwangi is currently being held at an undisclosed location as investigations continue. The DCI has stated that further updates will be provided in due course.
