Content creator Billy Simani, also known as “Crazy Nairobian” has been reportedly released.
In a statement, Digital Strategist Dennis Itumbi broke news about his release while expressing his gratitude to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) for the withdrawal of the complaint.
“Asante, for the withdrawal of the complaint. Crazy Nairobian released on Free Bond. Enjoy Freedom Billy,” said Itumbi.
This development comes after a section of Kenyans online as well as 25 human rights associations called on the DCI demanding clarification on the whereabouts of content creator.
Reports from family and friends indicated that Simani had been arrested on and was being detained by the investigative officers at an undisclosed location.
Itumbi Promises to Intervene in the Matter
Itumbi had earlier stated that he would try to intervene in the matter by reaching out to the complainant to see if they would withdraw the matter.
Also Read: Crazy Nairobian: 25 Associations Issue Demands as Pressure Piles on Govt
“I have checked with Police why Crazy Nairobian, Billy, is under arrest. I understand he sent threatening messages. I will reach out to the complainant to see if he/she can withdraw,” he wrote on X.
Additionally, he emphasized that he strongly disagreed with the arrest, noting that insults are part of free speech and that public servants should grow a thick skin.
“I am of the view that Insults are part of free speech. Insulting and critiquing public servants should not be treated as a crime.”
“I also firmly hold that Public Servants should grow a thick skin. Some of these arrests based on your complaints are unnecessary. They may not be illegal, but they are sincerely stupid!” remarked Itumbi.
Human Rights Groups Call for The Release of Crazy Nairobian
In a statement made on June 22, associations including the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) demanded for the immediate disclosure on the location and condition of Billy Simani, among other demands.
“We remind all state officers and the public that any infractions of this article, including forcibly abducting, holding persons incommunicado, or denying visitation rights, are crimes under our laws. Individual state officers can be held accountable in a court of law,” the statement read.
Additionally, they called for the release of any and all other content creators who also were being detained.
The coalition noted that the detention of these individuals was a direct attack on the freedom of expression.
Protests over the Finance Bill
Simani’s release comes as Kenyans continue to protest the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
The protests have been met with resistance from some political leaders, who have dismissed the demonstrations as sponsored and lacking substance.
However, participants have refuted these claims, attributing the protests to poor governance and the need for civic education.
Also Read: Safaricom Responds to Reports of Snitching Protesters to DCI
The protests are set to continue next Tuesday, with organizers urging young Kenyans to join the planned #TotalShutdown protests.
As the protests continue, Kenyans remain vigilant, demanding transparency and accountability from the government.
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