Safaricom Responds to Senate Inquiry Over Alleged Link to Death in Police Custody

Safaricom has responded firmly to claims linking it to the controversial death of Albert Omondi Ojwang, a young man who died while in police custody in Homa Bay, following his arrest. The matter, now under Senate investigation, has sparked nationwide outrage and drawn intense scrutiny over alleged misconduct by security agencies.

During a Senate session probing Ojwang’s death, several lawmakers questioned whether Safaricom may have played a role by sharing the deceased’s personal data with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Some proposed summoning the telecommunications provider for further clarification.

In a swift and unequivocal statement, Safaricom CEO Dr. Peter Ndegwa denied any involvement in the arrest or the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.

“At no point was there any contact between Safaricom and any security agency in investigating or arresting the late Albert,” the statement said. “We became aware of his arrest through media reports.”

Safaricom also addressed remarks made by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, who reportedly linked the company to the incident. Dr. Ndegwa described the allegations as “disturbing and unfounded.”

“We are concerned and disturbed by the remarks by Hon. Justin Muturi linking us to the unfortunate incident,” said Dr. Ndegwa, reaffirming the company’s commitment to customer privacy and data protection.

The telco urged Kenyans not to be drawn into politicizing the tragedy and instead called for focus on the need for a credible, transparent, and timely investigation into Ojwang’s death.

“Our ask to all Kenyans is to ignore any attempts to incite them and remain firm in demanding accountability through transparent investigations,” Safaricom stated.

The death of Ojwang has ignited public anger over police conduct and raised questions about the potential misuse of personal data. While investigations into the incident are ongoing, the Senate’s involvement has broadened the scope to include possible third-party roles in law enforcement operations.

Safaricom concluded its statement by reiterating its condolences to Ojwang’s family and assuring the public of its longstanding commitment to data integrity.

“We once again send our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late Albert and wish to reassure all Kenyans that we have always been safe and secure in how we handle their data, and we will continue to do so now and in the future,” said Dr. Ndegwa.

As calls for justice grow louder, attention now turns to the Senate and security agencies to uncover the truth and ensure accountability in what many are calling a grave case of alleged custodial abuse.