DCI Arrest Man Behind Viral Video Allegedly Threatening President Ruto

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested Peter Maingi Kimani, popularly known as Menelik Kimani, in Gachage, Kiganjo, Gatundu South Sub‑County, following the circulation of a viral video in which he allegedly threatened President William Ruto.

The arrest was conducted on Thursday, 26 February 2026, and confirmed by multiple news outlets.

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Authorities said Kimani recorded and shared a video clip on his TikTok account earlier this week containing what investigators described as a direct threat to the President and government officials.

The video quickly gained attention on social media, prompting the DCI to track Kimani’s digital footprint. Investigators eventually located him at a hideout, where he was allegedly hiding after posting the clip.

In the video, Kimani reportedly addressed President Ruto, stating:

“President William Ruto; ignore me at your own risk.”

He challenged the President’s democratic authority, asserting that “a real king doesn’t come through the ballot box, a real king comes from the battlefield.”

Kimani also claimed royal and biblical lineage, identifying himself as “Menelik, son of King Solomon, son of King David,” and insisted that power should be seized by force rather than elections.

Alleged Ultimatum

Kimani allegedly issued a seven‑day ultimatum, urging the President to prepare an “army for war” and warning that, if there was no response, he would “visit State House” and decide the President’s fate.

DCI Statement

Following the arrest, the DCI emphasized that freedom of expression is protected under the Constitution of Kenya, but it cannot be used to incite violence or threaten public safety.

The agency said it remains committed to monitoring and addressing the misuse of social media platforms, particularly where content is perceived as a threat to peace and national security.

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Kimani is currently undergoing processing at DCI headquarters in Nairobi ahead of his anticipated court arraignment.

Police have not disclosed specific charges, but sources say the case will likely involve provisions of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act alongside public order statutes relating to threatening communications.

Monitoring Online Threats

The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny of social media in political contexts, reflecting ongoing efforts by Kenyan law enforcement to respond to online activity that authorities believe may endanger public safety or national stability.