DCI launches anonymous WhatsApp channel for local, international crime reporting

A new crime reporting channel has been launched by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), allowing members of the public to share intelligence anonymously through WhatsApp.

The platform, introduced under the Fichua Kwa DCI initiative held on Tuesday, is expected to improve citizen participation in crime prevention, both locally and internationally.

Speaking during the relaunch of the platform, DCI boss Mohamed Amin announced the introduction of WhatsApp number 0709 570 000 alongside the existing toll-free hotline 0800 722 203. Mohamed said the new WhatsApp line offers a secure, discreet communication channel for reporting criminal activity.

“The new WhatsApp number provides an anonymous and secure channel through which the public, both locally and internationally, can share intelligence on crime,” Mohamed said.

He explained that the move marks an enhanced partnership between the DCI and citizens, describing it as “not just a communication tool, but a symbol of our commitment to improving security through cooperation with citizens.”

“It will allow easier, faster and more confidential sharing of crime-related intelligence,” he added.

According to Mohamed, the Directorate is adapting to emerging technologies to remain effective amid an evolving security environment.

“With the continuous advancement in technology, it’s vital that our crime-fighting mechanisms also evolve,” he said.

He noted that the WhatsApp number will particularly ease communication for Kenyans in the diaspora seeking to report crimes.

While reassuring the public that the toll-free number remains operational, Amin emphasised that both platforms guarantee anonymity.

“Among the many achievements we have recorded, many have been possible thanks to courageous citizens who reported suspicious activities through Fichua Kwa DCI,” he said.

DCI boss Mohamed Amin: The Fichua kwa DCI centre has provided an anonymous and secure channel through which the public, both locally and internationally, can share intelligence on crime via our toll-free number 0800722203. The public can also share information through WhatsApp… pic.twitter.com/p3y5J4pVfz

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) July 22, 2025

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who presided over the event, defended the agency against accusations of impunity. He dismissed claims that the DCI operates secretly or has been infiltrated by rogue officers.

“There’s a lot of innuendo and propaganda that this DCI is a hidden place, that rogue officers are here. As you can see, all these officers have been introduced openly; we know their names, we know what they do, and this is an institution that is of the people; it’s not for us [the government or elites],” Murkomen said.

His remarks come amid public criticism of the DCI over its handling of recent protests, where plainclothes officers in unmarked vehicles have made controversial arrests. Murkomen insisted that DCI officers are bound by constitutional provisions requiring transparency, accountability and community-based policing.

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“A few people still live in the past, where they think that police officers operate in isolation. Unfortunately, for those who think so, it’s no longer possible because the constitution itself talks about transparency and accountability on the part of the National Police Service. It also talks about a service, not a force,” he said.

The CS acknowledged that incidents of police misconduct have contributed to public mistrust, but said ongoing reforms aim to rebuild confidence.

“There are a few cases on the part of the police that have created suspicion, fear, and a gap between the DCI and the public. Our responsibility here through police reforms is to create a community that Kenyans can trust—the National Police Service, the DCI—so that they know that when I tell DCI that I have a problem, my message is going to be treated anonymously, but I will also be protected,” he said.

He described the revamped Fichua Kwa DCI platform as a key component of reforms aimed at restoring public trust and encouraging citizen involvement in national security.

“This [Fichua] creates transparency and gives Kenyans a sense of ownership to take charge of their National Police Service. The ideal situation is to see all Kenyans work in close collaboration with the police,” he added.

The relaunch also included the commissioning of a modernised call centre equipped with upgraded communication infrastructure, including a power backup inverter and a dedicated recovery server to guarantee uninterrupted service delivery.

Murkomen also commended the partnership with the UK government, which supported the upgrade, terming it critical in enhancing Kenya’s policing capabilities.

“Together we strive not only for a safer Kenya but also a safer global community,” he said, adding that the partnership includes advanced technology transfer and specialised training for DCI officers.

The Fichua Kwa DCI initiative was originally launched in December 2020. With the latest upgrades, members of the public are now urged to report any suspicious activities through the toll-free hotline or the newly introduced WhatsApp platform.