Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested Kenyan youth Maximilian Motara following a viral social media video in which he allegedly mutilated a Kenyan currency note.
According to a statement released by the DCI, investigators from the Banking Fraud Investigations Unit (BFIU) tracked down and apprehended Motara after the video circulated widely on TikTok, sparking public debate and attracting the attention of authorities.
DCI Statement on the Arrest
In its official communication, the DCI confirmed that Motara was taken into custody and is currently undergoing processing ahead of a court appearance.
“Banking Fraud Investigations Unit (BFIU) detectives have arrested Maximilian Motara who was wanted for allegedly mutilating Kenyan currency notes and flaunting the acts on TikTok. He is currently in custody and is being processed for arraignment in court,” the agency said.
The video allegedly showed Motara tearing a Kenyan KSh100 banknote, an act that authorities say violates laws that prohibit defacing or destroying currency.
Law on Mutilation of Kenyan Currency
Kenyan law prohibits the destruction, defacement, or mutilation of legal tender issued by the Central Bank of Kenya.
Such acts are considered offenses because they undermine the integrity and circulation of national currency.
Authorities have previously warned that individuals who intentionally damage or misuse currency notes could face legal consequences, including fines or prosecution.
Motara’s video gained widespread traction on TikTok, drawing mixed reactions online.
The arrest highlights the increasing scrutiny by Kenyan authorities of viral online content that may violate national laws.
The DCI confirmed that Motara remains in custody and will be presented in court once the necessary processing is complete.
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