The Crime Journalists Association of Kenya (CJAK) has demanded the unconditional release of Standard Group photojournalist Collins Kweyu, who was arrested in Nairobi under unclear circumstances and detained at Central Police Station.
In a strongly worded statement on Friday night, CJAK accused police of abusing their authority and using state machinery to intimidate the press. They insisted Kweyu must either be charged in court or freed immediately, terming the detention unlawful and a direct attack on press freedom.
Kweyu was reportedly arrested by officers attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Migori after a complaint filed by a High Court judge. The journalist had been probing allegations that the judge sought a KSh10 million bribe to influence a case.
According to reports, Kweyu was lured to a Nairobi hotel under the pretext of a meeting before officers apprehended him and took him to Central Police Station. Since the arrest was executed by Migori-based officers, he was denied bail at the station despite efforts by fellow journalists and the Kenya Union of Journalists.
CJAK condemned the raid on his home and equipment, saying it amounted to an attempt to expose his sources. The union reminded authorities that journalists are constitutionally protected and warned against actions that weaken press freedom and the rule of law.
The incident has revived memories of activist and blogger Albert Ojwang, who died under suspicious circumstances while in custody at the same police station, with several officers later charged over his death.
CJAK has vowed to pursue legal and advocacy measures to ensure Kweyu’s immediate release and protection from harassment.
 has demanded the unconditional release of Standard Group photojournalist Collins Kweyu, who was arrested in Nairobi under unclear circumstances and detained at Central Police Station.){kind=link}