Safaricom denies link to Albert Ojwang’s arrest

Safaricom has come out strongly to deny any involvement in the arrest and subsequent death of Albert Omondi Ojwang, whose demise in police custody has sparked national outrage and political uproar.

In a statement issued by the telco’s CEO Peter Ndegwa on Tuesday, Safaricom expressed deep concern over remarks made by former Attorney General and ex-Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, who allegedly linked the company to Ojwang’s arrest by implying that it may have provided sensitive data to security agencies.

"On the onset, Safaricom wishes to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the late Albert," Ndegwa said in the statement, before moving swiftly to refute the claims.

"At no point was there any contact between Safaricom and any security agency in investigating or arresting the late Albert," he stated unequivocally, adding that the company only learned of the arrest through media reports.

Ojwang, a 31-year-old social media commentator, died in police custody under circumstances that have drawn sharp scrutiny from rights groups, opposition politicians, and the general public.

His death, since ruled a murder after an autopsy report dismiised police claims of a suicide, has been viewed by many as yet another case of extrajudicial killing, triggering calls for accountability.

Safaricom, Kenya's largest telecommunications provider, is often relied upon by law enforcement for access to communication data in criminal investigations, but the company has always maintained that such access is tightly controlled and guided by law.

In response to the political storm surrounding the case, the telco urged Kenyans to "ignore any attempts to incite them" and instead demand transparency and accountability from the relevant authorities.

"We are concerned and disturbed by the remarks by Justin Muturi linking us to this unfortunate incident," Ndegwa said, urging leaders to advocate for "a credible, transparent and timely investigation" to uncover the truth and deliver justice for Ojwang and his family.

The company also reassured its customers of its long-standing commitment to data privacy and security, stating, "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."