The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has ordered the closure of the investigation into Worldcoin, a cryptocurrency project by Tools for Humanity.
This decision comes after the company was suspended in August 2023 due to concerns over lack of proper documentation and data privacy.
The investigation, launched in 2023, had looked into allegations of unlawful collection and transfer of personal sensitive data by Worldcoin.
Worldcoin was also accused of collecting biometric data, including iris scans, from unsuspecting Kenyans in exchange for free cryptocurrencies.
The company argued that the data would be used to create a unique, secure form of identification.
Concerns Raised Over World Coin’s Data Use
However, privacy experts raised concerns that the company may use the information in other ways, such as personalized marketing.
In a letter dated May 21, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) responded to inquiries from World coin’s lawyers, Coulson Harney LLP, stating that investigations into the matter had been concluded.
Also Read: Worldcoin Boss Explains Fate of Data Taken from Kenyans
The DCI further noted that the case file had been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for an independent review and advice.
“Upon review of the file, the Director of Public Prosecutions concurred and directed that the file be closed with no further police action,” read part of the DCI letter signed by Hillary Kimutai and June 14.
Consequently, DCI advised the company to ensure proper business registration, licensing, and coordination with relevant authorities as a condition of continuing with its operations.
This move is expected to pave the way for Worldcoin’s return to Kenya and the resumption of its digital identity registration program.
World Coin Official Commends the Decision
In response to the news, the company operations director Thomas Scott expressed gratitude for the decision.
“We are grateful for the DCI’s fair investigation and for the Director of Public Prosecutions’ determination to close the matter,” he said.
Scott emphasized that the outcome marks a new beginning for the company, stating, “This welcome result is, however, not an end but a beginning.”
Also Read: MPs Seal WorldCoin Fate in Kenya; Report
Furthermore, he said that Worldcoin would continue working with the government and other stakeholders to resume its digital identity registration program across the country.
“We will continue working with the Government of Kenya and others and we hope to resume World ID registration across the country soon.”
For now, Scott expressed relief at being able to refocus on the company’s primary mission.
“We are just pleased to return our focus to advancing Worldcoin’s mission: creating opportunities for people in Kenya and elsewhere to participate in the global economy.”
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