Concerns Raised After Journalist Is Arrested After Being Lured to Meeting After Reporting On Jugde's Bribery Scandal

A Standard Group journalist, Collins Kweyu, was arrested in Nairobi under circumstances that have sparked widespread concern over press freedom in Kenya. 

According to reports, Kweyu was lured to a meeting before being taken into custody by detectives from Migori. 

He is currently held at Central Police Station in Nairobi, and authorities plan to transfer him to Migori, where the case against him originates.

Kweyu revealed that he received a phone call inviting him to meet at Hot Dishes Restaurant in Nairobi. 

Upon arrival, he was confronted by detectives and arrested without prior notice of any charges. 

Officers also reportedly searched his home and seized his computer equipment, prompting fears that authorities may be seeking to identify his confidential sources.

The Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) condemned the arrest, calling for Kweyu’s immediate release and emphasizing the importance of journalists’ safety. 

KUJ Secretary-General Eric Oduo said efforts were underway to secure his release on cash bail and highlighted the constitutional rights protecting journalists from arbitrary detention.

Crime Journalists Association of Kenya (CJAK) described the arrest as highly concerning, noting that it coincided with a Friday evening, which could delay legal proceedings over the weekend. 

CJAK Secretary-General Brian Obuya said the detention is linked to Kweyu’s reporting on a Migori-based judge allegedly involved in a KSh 10 million bribery scandal.

“This arrest is a direct threat to press freedom. Journalists must be able to report without fear of intimidation or reprisal,” CJAK stated. 

The association also reminded the public of the late journalist Albert Ojwang’, who died under suspicious circumstances while in custody, warning that Kweyu’s safety must be ensured.

The Court Reporters Association of Kenya (CRAK) also spoke out, noting that denying Kweyu bail violated his constitutional rights. 

CRAK Secretary-General Sam Kiplagat urged law enforcement to uphold due process and treat all detainees with dignity, stressing that a free press is central to democracy.

This incident has reignited discussions about journalist protection and the role of law enforcement in safeguarding press freedom. 

Media watchdogs and journalist associations are calling for urgent measures to ensure reporters can perform their work without fear of harassment or unlawful arrest, highlighting the importance of accountability for both police and judicial officers.