Communications Authority Denies IG Kanja's Claims It Helped Police Locate Albert Ojwang

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has addressed allegations that it helped police officers trace the location of the late Albert Ojwang.

In a statement released on Wednesday, June 11, CA denied the claims it said were circulating on social media platforms, despite Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja revealing during a Senate appearance earlier that officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) approached CA seeking details of the X account accused of defaming Deputy IG Eliud Lagat.

"We note with grave concern the misleading claims on social media platforms alleging that CA provided data on the whereabouts of the deceased to law enforcement. This position is factually erroneous. We categorically distance CA from any involvement whatsoever on this matter," stated the CA in part.

According to the regulator, it does not have access to real-time location data of mobile subscribers. Further, it clarified that it does not initiate, direct, or participate in the operational use of data held by its licensees.

According to CA, "Any request for data from law enforcement agencies is governed by strict legal provisions that include judicial oversight and is limited to instances where there is a valid court order or lawful request as per the law."

CA went on to state that it operates under the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998 and is mandated to facilitate the development of the information and communications sectors, including broadcasting, cybersecurity, multimedia, telecommunications, electronic (e-) commerce, postal and courier services.

"Our role is confined to oversight and compliance, ensuring that licensees adhere to the prevailing regulatory requirements. While CA is deeply saddened by the death of Mr. Ojwang and the circumstances surrounding it, we fully support calls for a transparent and impartial investigation into the matter," CA nonetheless assured.

According to Kanja, police requested information on an X account under the username he revealed to be Pixelpioneer, which was accused of posting defamatory content about Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, and claimed it had over 13,400 followers.

However, fact checks by Viral Tea revealed that the account only has 118 followers and is based in Melbourne, Australia. Its bio reads "Interactive developer and designer specialising in data journalism and editorial assignments", and operates under the name 'Andy Ball'.