The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has verified the detention of comedian and activist Erick Omondi following concerns about his abduction on Friday.
In a statement released on Friday, June 5, the DCI confirmed that its personnel had taken the activist into custody at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) based on intelligence connecting him to criminal activities disguised as protests against rising fuel costs.
According to the investigation authority, officers from DCI Central, in collaboration with Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) Nairobi Region personnel, detained the activist and transferred him to the Nairobi Region DCI Headquarters for processing.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirms the detention of Erick Omondi today, 5th June 2026, at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA),” the DCI stated.
“Based on credible intelligence, detectives from DCI Central, working in cooperation with CRIB Nairobi Region, apprehended the individual in connection with offenses committed under the cover of recent fuel-related protests in Nairobi. He is currently providing his statement at the Nairobi Region DCI Headquarters while being prepared for court appearance,” the statement added.
The clarification comes amid concerns regarding the comedian’s location after he revealed that eight uniformed individuals had detained him.
Earlier in the day, the comedian had posted on his social media accounts that he had been apprehended by eight men and was unaware of their destination.
“Just been detained by a group of 8 non-uniformed men. I have no idea where we are headed!!!” Omondi wrote.
According to investigators, Omondi’s detention is part of an ongoing inquiry into incidents connected to the fuel protests that affected Nairobi days ago.
The DCI further mentioned that several other individuals linked to the same case had already been arrested and brought before the court on May 18, 2026.
However, the investigators did not immediately reveal the specific charges the activist faces, but they affirmed that their investigation has established connections between him and alleged criminal activities during the demonstrations.
The DCI also reiterated that citizens have the right to assemble, picket, and demonstrate peacefully, but cautioned that these freedoms must be exercised within legal boundaries.
“Criminal acts committed under the guise of protests, demonstrations, or civic action will be investigated and handled firmly in accordance with the law,” the agency emphasized.