DCI and police ordered to stop posting these photos on social media

ruby orimba

December 10, 2018 10:06 AM

The official accounts for the two law enforcement offices have been prompt in posting the photos

IG Jospeh Boinnet with Governor Sonko. DCI and police have been ordered to stop posting mug shots online

The High Court has ordered the Directorate of Crimianl Investigation (DCI) and the National Police Service (NPS) to stop sharing photos of arrested suspects.

The courts made the ruling following a formal suit by a resident in Nairobi, Henry Shitanda, who claims that the move is unconstitutional.

DCI's official Twitter handle has been especially prompt in sharing mug shots of the suspects as soon as they are apprehended.

The courts granted the conservatory orders as the case is scheduled to be heard on March 5, 2019.

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"That a conservatory order is hereby issued restraining the Inspector of General Police and Director of Criminal Investigations from posting suspects and or accused person booking photographs on the internet and social media, specifically on the DCI Facebook and Twitter page pending the determination of the petition," Justice Wilfrida Okwany stated.

The Internet Never Forgets

The petitioner is seeking to have DCI boss George Kinoti and Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet compelled to share the photos only after the suspects are formally charged in court.

"The internet and social media have made booking photos more embarrassing and humiliating than ever before as the accused or suspects are entitled to privacy rights as enshrined in the constitution.

"The respondents should be made aware that even after suspects or accused in the criminal proceedings the booking photographs are available on the internet long after the case ends," the court papers read in part.