A former DCI officer has sought legal intervention seeking to silence social media users linking him to recent abduction claims.
The move comes after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accused a police unit led by a person named “Abel” of carrying out abductions and killings.
In the wake of Gachagua’s comments, social media users have been speculating that the individual referred to could be Abel Kimutai Bitok, who, according to records, was a former officer with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Bitok, who claims to have resigned from the DCI in 2022, has filed a complaint against social media users who have suggested he is involved in the abductions.
He is now seeking legal recourse, demanding action against those spreading the allegations online.
His legal team argues that these claims have led to defamation and public harassment, particularly in the wake of the intense attention the abduction issue has garnered.
They assert that the online accusations have adversely affected Bitok’s reputation and personal life, creating an atmosphere of fear and distress.
In addition to seeking punitive damages, Bitok’s legal representatives are calling for a court order to prevent further defamatory statements and hold accountable those who perpetuate the rumours.
The case has sparked a broader discussion about the role of social media in shaping narratives and the potential consequences for individuals who find themselves at the centre of unsubstantiated claims.
As the legal battle unfolds, many are watching closely to see how the courts will address the tension between free speech and protecting individual reputations in the digital age.
