This archive report was first published on 3 August 2020.
Edgar Obare, a Kenyan blogger and YouTuber, has been released from custody after spending four days behind bars. He was arrested on July 30, 2020, by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) after being summoned.
Obare, also known as the tea master, was taken to Gigiri Police Station where his lawyers attempted to secure his release on bail. However, a senior political figure allegedly blocked his release.
Obare is accused by Natalie Wanjiru Githinji, alias Natalie Tewa, of disclosing her personal information. However, he has denied the charges.
According to sources, the arrest may be linked to a previous claim by Obare that Natalie had accompanied Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho to Dubai and that the two were in a relationship. Obare had also shared a photo of an Audi A3 that was allegedly gifted to Natalie by Joho, which she denied.
On August 3, 2020, Obare made his first public appearance after his release from custody. He was seen outside Kiambu Law Courts, where he was accompanied by fellow YouTuber Xtian Dela.
Obare's release comes after four days in custody, during which time he was denied bail. The case against him remains ongoing.
