The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed the safe recovery of 9-month-old Baby Tamara following a high-profile social media campaign that drew widespread public attention.
The case began when Timon Makswell, the child’s father, shared his account on Facebook alleging he was detained by police and pressured by in-laws to surrender his daughter. His post, which included the hashtags #JusticeForBabyTamara and #JusticeForTimonMakswell, prompted urgent calls for intervention from Kenyans online.
DCI responded by urging Makswell to file a formal complaint and provide an Occurrence Book (OB) number. A February 28, 2019, tweet from the agency stated: "Kindly but urgently advise Mr. Timon Makswell to lodge a complaint at any police station and then share with us the OB number. Be assured that investigations will be launched & Justice served."
On March 5, 2019, the DCI announced the child’s rescue via Twitter, stating: "Detectives from the Child Protection Unit have rescued #BabyTamara & arrested two culprits. The baby is in safe hands & the two suspects are in lawful custody & will be arraigned in court tomorrow."
Two individuals have been charged in connection with the alleged unlawful removal of the child, with court proceedings scheduled for the following day. The case highlights the role of social media in amplifying child protection issues in Kenya.
