Online personality Maximilian Motara, widely known on social media as the son of a billionaire businessman, has been arrested by detectives from the Banking Fraud Investigations Unit (BFIU) following the circulation of a video showing him tearing Kenyan currency notes.
According to investigators, Motara allegedly recorded and shared a video in which he tore KSh100 and KSh200 banknotes, an act that is considered the mutilation of legal tender under Kenyan law. The footage circulated widely online and triggered investigations by authorities tasked with handling financial and currency-related offences.
Detectives confirmed that he was taken into custody and is expected to be arraigned in court to face charges related to the destruction of currency.
“Detectives from the Banking Fraud Investigations Unit have arrested Maximilian Motara, who was wanted for allegedly mutilating Kenyan currency,” investigators said in a statement shared online.
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                                                                                                              Bilionare son // Instagram 
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Viral Video Sparked Investigation

The arrest followed the spread of a video on social media platforms, including TikTok, where Motara was allegedly seen tearing banknotes during a recording. The clip quickly attracted attention online, prompting criticism and calls for authorities to act.
Kenyan authorities say the destruction or defacement of banknotes undermines the integrity of the national currency and is treated as a criminal offence.
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What the Law Says

Kenya’s Penal Code specifically addresses the mutilation of currency notes. Under Section 367A, it is illegal to deliberately damage, tear, cut, or otherwise deface banknotes issued by a lawful authority.
The law states that:
Any person who wilfully and without authority defaces, tears, cuts or mutilates a currency note commits an offence.
If convicted, the offence carries penalties including:
  • A fine of up to KSh2,000
  • Imprisonment of up to three months
  • Or both a fine and imprisonment.

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Authorities and the Central Bank of Kenya have repeatedly warned members of the public against damaging currency notes, including tearing, stapling, glueing, or using them for decorative purposes. Such actions may interfere with the circulation and usability of the currency.
Bilionare son // Instagram 

Awaiting Court Appearance

Motara remains in police custody as investigations continue. Officials say he is expected to be presented before a court where he will formally respond to charges related to the alleged destruction of Kenyan currency.