By Nyang’au Araka
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the alleged non-consensual recording and circulation of intimate videos involving Kenyan women.
Videos depicting the women as amorous have already sparked public outrage and renewed concerns over digital privacy and cyber-exploitation.
In a press statement issued under the National Police Service (NPS), the agency said it had noted “with grave concern” reports that a suspected foreign national—identified as Russian—was involved in the recording and subsequent sharing of the explicit content without the victims’ consent.
The DCI condemned the acts, terming them serious violations of privacy, personal dignity, and constitutional rights.
Investigators say the conduct may amount to technology-facilitated gender-based violence and could attract charges under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, the Penal Code, and other statutes protecting women and children from exploitation.
“As the premier investigative agency in the country, the DCI has initiated a comprehensive inquiry into the matter,” the statement read.
The probe includes activation of specialized cybercrime and gender-based violence units to collect forensic evidence, trace digital footprints, and identify all persons linked to the production and dissemination of the material.
Authorities are also working with international law-enforcement partners, citing possible cross-border elements in the case.
According to earlier coverage and public interest reporting by the Kisii Press Club, the allegations triggered widespread concern among digital rights advocates and women’s groups, who warned about the growing misuse of technology to target and exploit women.
The reports highlighted calls for swift arrests, victim protection, and tighter monitoring of online platforms hosting abusive content.
The DCI has urged victims, witnesses, or any affected individuals to record statements at its headquarters or nearest offices, assuring confidentiality and sensitivity in handling complaints.
“All statements will be handled with the utmost confidentiality, dignity, sensitivity, and respect for the privacy and well-being of the complainants,” the agency said.
Members of the public were further warned against sharing, reposting, or circulating the alleged videos, noting that doing so perpetuates secondary victimization and may attract criminal liability under Kenyan law.
The agency reiterated its commitment to safeguarding vulnerable persons in both physical and digital spaces and pledged to pursue all individuals or entities involved in the recording, distribution, or further circulation of the content.
Authorities have also called on the public to remain vigilant and report cyber-related crimes through official DCI communication channels as investigations continue.