Detectives from the Banking Fraud Investigations Unit (BFIU) have recently arrested Maximilian Motara, who had been on the authorities’ radar for allegedly mutilating Kenyan currency notes and sharing the acts on TikTok.
In a statement issued by the DCI, Motara is suspected of deliberately damaging Kenyan banknotes and posting videos of the acts on the popular social media platform, where they quickly attracted public attention and criticism.
The videos reportedly showed the notes being tampered with in ways that violate Kenyan laws protecting the integrity of national currency.
Kenyan law strictly prohibits the defacement, mutilation, or destruction of currency notes and coins.
According to law, such acts undermine public confidence in the country’s financial system and can attract legal consequences.
The Banking Fraud Investigations Unit, which handles financial crimes and offenses involving currency, launched investigations after the videos began circulating online.
Following the investigation, detectives tracked down and arrested Motara.
Police confirmed that he is currently in custody as officers finalize the necessary procedures before presenting him in court.
Once processing is complete, Motara will be arraigned to face charges related to the alleged mutilation of Kenyan currency.
If found guilty, he could face penalties under laws governing the protection and lawful use of the country’s money.
The arrest has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many users warning content creators against engaging in illegal acts in pursuit of online fame and viral attention.
