Maverick Aoko released on bail after allegations of cyber harassment

Scophine Aoko Otieno, popularly known on social media as Maverick Aoko, has been released on Sh100,000 cash bail after being charged with cyber harassment, fraudulent use of electronic data, and publishing false information.

Milimani chief magistrate Susan Shitubi granted Aoko an alternative personal bond of Sh200,000, as the prosecution did not provide sufficient reasons to deny her bail before trial.

Aoko, a well-known and controversial figure on X (formerly Twitter), denied all charges related to allegations of posting malicious and false information about a woman named Beth Wambui Mbuitu on her social media platform.

The prosecution argued that the posts were part of a deliberate attempt to harm Mbuitu’s reputation.

The court was informed that the alleged offences took place on August 3, 2024, at an unspecified location in Kenya.

The charges were brought under Section 23 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act of 2018, which carries a penalty of up to Sh5 million in fines, a 10-year prison sentence, or both, if a person is found guilty.

Aoko's arrest followed a search warrant issued by court on August 7, 2024, at the request of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

Chief Inspector Nickson Kinyua sought court’s permission to search Aoko's residence and seize electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, iPads, tablets, and desktops.

The DCI also requested access to all passwords, codes, login credentials, and any other materials relevant for forensic analysis.

In seeking the search orders, detective Kinyua explained that Aoko was under investigation for various cybercrimes, including the publication of false information.

He stated that a review of her online posts revealed a pattern of defamatory content - an indication the accused had committed several cyber offenses.

The investigation revealed that Aoko was the user of multiple X accounts, including @AokoOtieno, @MaverickAokoo, and @MaverickOtieno. These accounts were allegedly used to target various individuals with malicious content from June 2024 to to-date

On August 16, 2024, DCI detectives executed the search orders and arrested Aoko at her home.

The arrest prompted a backlash from her supporters, who accused the DCI of using excessive force.

Aoko's aide posted on her X account, describing the officers' actions as a blatant show of force and an abuse of power, adding that they seized her electronic devices without valid justification.

Aoko, known for her bold and often controversial opinions, has gained a significant following for her outspoken views on various issues, including her critique of feminism and her defense of men’s rights.

She has previously been involved in several high-profile online disputes, including a public feud with a former Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) and other prominent figures.