More than twenty social media content creators were arrested in Nairobi on Tuesday, January 21, following a spike in public complaints over harassment and indecent conduct carried out in the name of online content creation.
Police said officers from Pangani Police Station carried out the arrests after residents from Eastleigh, Pangani, and parts of Muthaiga repeatedly reported disturbing incidents that were disrupting public safety and order.
How the Harassment Allegedly Took Place
Investigators revealed that the suspects, many of whom are active on TikTok, deliberately targeted unsuspecting pedestrians—especially women and young girls—while recording videos for social media.
According to police, the group would approach people from behind, touch them without consent, shout at them, or intentionally scare them to provoke reactions for the camera. These encounters were allegedly staged to generate shocking or humorous content.
The recorded footage was later uploaded online to attract views, engagement, and followers.
Several videos that circulated widely on social media show young men accosting pedestrians along busy streets. Some clips depict unwanted physical contact, while others show victims being frightened, often appearing visibly shaken and distressed.
Public Outrage and Legal Action
The videos quickly sparked widespread outrage, with many Kenyans demanding firm action against content creators who misuse social media platforms for harmful pranks and abusive behavior.
Authorities confirmed that the suspects are expected to be arraigned in court on Wednesday. They are likely to face multiple charges, including harassment, indecent assault, and recording individuals without their consent.
Police also noted that investigations are ongoing and issued a stern warning to content creators who break the law under the guise of entertainment.
“Social media platforms do not grant immunity from prosecution,” a police spokesperson said. “Any action that violates personal safety, dignity, or the law will be dealt with accordingly.”
A Growing Trend Authorities Had Already Flagged
Tuesday’s arrests come months after similar concerns were raised by political leaders.
In November last year, Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris sounded the alarm after a viral video showed young men harassing girls while claiming they were creating content.
She described the trend as a dangerous abuse of digital platforms and questioned the safety of women subjected to such encounters in public spaces.
“I am calling on the DCI to apprehend these boys immediately,” she said at the time. “Let this be a warning to anyone who assaults another person, especially under the excuse of content creation. Enough is enough.”
Police say the latest arrests send a clear message: harassment—whether online or offline—will not be tolerated.
En savoir plus sur Gnatepe
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
