Safaricom and Communications Authority Deny Role in Albert Ojwang’s Arrest and Death
The company’s response follows growing pressure and speculation on social media suggesting Safaricom may have provided data that led to Ojwang’s arrest.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa. Photo/The Star Kenya.
By Robert Assad
Telecoms giant Safaricom has firmly denied any involvement in the arrest or surveillance of Albert Ojwang’, whose death in police custody has sparked outrage across the country. The company clarified it only learned about Ojwang’s controversial detention through the media.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa expressed concern over claims by some leaders linking the telco to the incident. “We are disturbed by the remarks suggesting our involvement. Our ask to all Kenyans is to ignore attempts to incite them and instead demand accountability through transparent investigations,” he said.
Ndegwa called on political leaders to focus on truth and justice. “We urge our leaders to push for a credible, transparent, and timely investigation that will bring the perpetrators to justice and give the family and Kenyans the answers they deserve,” he added.
He also reassured the public that Safaricom remains committed to protecting user data. “Our systems are secure and will continue to remain so,” Ndegwa emphasized.
The company’s response follows growing pressure and speculation on social media suggesting Safaricom may have provided data that led to Ojwang’s arrest.
In a parallel statement, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) also distanced itself from the case. CA dismissed claims that it supplied law enforcement with Ojwang’s location data, labeling the reports as false and misleading.
“As a regulator, the Authority does not have access to real-time subscriber location data,” CA said. “We neither initiate, direct, nor participate in how data held by licensees is operationally used.”
The regulator clarified that any data request from law enforcement must follow legal channels, including valid court orders or lawful requests as outlined by the law. “Our role is strictly regulatory — to ensure licensees comply with existing rules and standards,” CA concluded.
Ojwang’, who was arrested in Homa Bay over a social media post allegedly targeting Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, was later transferred to Nairobi’s Central Police Station. He was found unconscious in his cell and later died at Mbagathi Hospital, triggering national concern over police conduct and digital privacy.
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