Safaricom Forced to Issue Statement after Being Mentioned in Albert Ojwanga’s murder

Safaricom has found itself at the centre of a heated national conversation after being mentioned in the Senate during a session probing the controversial death of Albert Omondi Ojwang, a young man who died in police custody after his arrest in Homa Bay.

During the Senate hearing, some lawmakers suggested that the telecommunications giant should be summoned to explain its alleged role in the arrest, specifically concerning claims of sharing personal data with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). This prompted a swift and strongly worded response from Safaricom.

In a statement released by CEO Dr. Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom expressed its condolences to the family of the late Ojwang and categorically denied any involvement in the events leading to his arrest or death.

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

The company went further to express concern over remarks made by former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, who reportedly linked Safaricom to the incident. Dr. Ndegwa labelled such allegations as disturbing and unfounded.

“We are therefore concerned and disturbed by the remarks by Hon. Justin Muturi linking us to the unfortunate incident,” he stated, adding that Safaricom remains committed to data security and the privacy of its customers.

The telco urged Kenyans to remain calm and not be swayed by attempts to politicize the tragedy. It also called on leaders to focus their energies on pushing for a “credible, transparent, and timely investigation” to bring justice to the family and clarity to the public.

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

The tragic death of Albert Ojwang has triggered national outrage and demands for accountability from law enforcement agencies. While the full facts of the case remain under investigation, the Senate’s move to scrutinize potential third-party involvement has added a new layer to the story.

Safaricom concluded its statement by reassuring the public of its longstanding commitment to handling customer data with 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,” Dr. Ndegwa affirmed.

As the investigation into Ojwang’s death continues, all eyes are now on both the Senate and the security agencies to uncover the truth behind what many have called a deeply troubling case of alleged custodial abuse.