Veteran Kenyan journalist Macharia Gaitho was briefly detained on Wednesday in what authorities are calling a case of mistaken identity.
The incident, which involved plainclothes officers forcibly removing Gaitho from Karen Police Station, has raised concerns about police conduct and press freedom in Kenya.
DCI Chief Mohammed Amin told the media Wednesday morning that the detention of seasoned was due to a case of mistaken identity. This statement came shortly after Gaitho’s arrest.
“The National Police Service would like to clarify to the public that this morning, we arrested journalist Macharia Gaitho in a case of mistaken identity, meant for the arrest of Francis Gaitho who is our subject of investigation. We reiterate that as a Service, we do not target journalists in any way, and today’s incident is highly regrettable,” read a statement from the police.
Gaitho, a respected editor currently affiliated with Nation Media Group, was reportedly traveling with his son when they noticed a vehicle following them.
Seeking safety, they drove to Karen Police Station, where the situation took an unexpected turn.
According to a video recorded and shared by Gaitho’s son, plainclothes individuals, operating under the supervision of uniformed police officers, abducted Gaitho and forced him into a waiting vehicle.
The motive behind the initial pursuit remains unclear, leaving many questions unanswered.
Colleagues of Gaitho, many of whom have worked alongside the veteran editor throughout his distinguished career, quickly mobilized to demand his release.
Following his brief detention, Gaitho was promptly returned to Karen Police Station. His daughter later confirmed his safety, though she noted he had endured some rough handling during the incident.
