Prison Officer 'Cop Shakur' Detained for 21 Days Pending Investigations

Jackson Kuria, widely known as 'Cop Shakur,' a former Kamiti Prison warder and vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza government, will remain in detention for 21 days as investigations into allegations of incitement to mutiny and providing false information continue.

Kuria, who rose to prominence during the Gen Z protests against the government, was arrested on January 15 at his residence within Kamiti Prison. He appeared before Milimani Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina on January 16, where the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) successfully applied for his extended detention.
During his arrest, Kuria informed his followers on X (formerly Twitter) about the events, claiming he was denied a phone call and calling for public support to raise cash bail. He has over 5,000 followers on the platform, where he often voices his criticisms of the government.
Background and Controversy
Kuria, whose protests against President William Ruto's administration went viral, gained attention for holding placards denouncing government policies while in uniform. His most notable placard read:
"I am doing this on behalf of a government employee who is tired of Zakayo but can't say anything because kazi itaenda."

These actions led to his interdiction from Kamiti Maximum Security Prison for violating disciplinary rules. His salary was halved as punishment, and he reported being subjected to harsh treatment at work, including being made to eat convicts’ food.

In a 2024 interview, Kuria spoke candidly about the struggles of law enforcement officers, highlighting depression, low pay, and victimization. He described his protests as a fight for better welfare and against the rising cost of living.

Despite the risks, Kuria remained resolute, stating, “Is speaking against the high cost of living a crime?”

Public Reactions and Investigations
Activist Boniface Mwangi condemned Kuria’s arrest, detailing how the DCI tracked him using his phone. Mwangi criticized the handling of Kuria’s case and called for accountability.
The 21-day detention period will allow authorities to gather more evidence and clarify the charges against Kuria. Meanwhile, his case has drawn significant public and media attention, reigniting debates about freedom of speech and the treatment of government critics.