DCI arrests TikToker after tearing Sh100 note in viral video

A Kenyan man who filmed himself tearing what appeared to be a Sh100 note and posting the clip on TikTok has been arrested, authorities have confirmed.

According to a statement from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, detectives from the Banking Fraud Investigations Unit tracked down and arrested Maximilian Motara, who had been wanted for allegedly mutilating Kenyan currency and flaunting the act on social media.

Motara is currently in custody and is being processed for arraignment in court.

The arrest comes after the viral video showed the man tearing a banknote into pieces; an act that triggered outrage online and caught the attention of investigators.

Under Section 367A of the Penal Code, it is a criminal offence to deliberately deface, tear, cut or otherwise mutilate a currency note without lawful authority.

Authorities say the law exists to protect the integrity of the country’s money and ensure that banknotes remain usable within the financial system.

The Central Bank of Kenya has repeatedly warned that damaging banknotes — whether intentionally or through careless practices — undermines confidence in the national currency and disrupts circulation.

The CBK has also cautioned the public against a growing trend of using cash for decorative purposes during celebrations such as weddings and parties.

Practices like folding banknotes into bouquets, rolling them tightly, stapling them or pinning them onto clothes may appear harmless but often result in physical damage to the notes.

According to the regulator, such actions may amount to currency defacement, which is punishable under Kenyan law.

Lawyer Essendi Kenneth says individuals convicted of mutilating currency can face legal penalties.

“Upon conviction, the offence of mutilating a currency note carries relatively modest but clear penalties. Section 367A of the Penal Code provides that an offender may face imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months, a fine not exceeding two thousand shillings, or both,” he explained.

The law also extends to coins. Under Section 369 of the Penal Code, melting, breaking or defacing coins is also an offence.

Those found guilty may face a fine of up to Sh8,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

Beyond criminal punishment, violations may also attract penalties under the Central Bank of Kenya (Currency Handling) Regulations, 2010, which restrict the unauthorised use or reproduction of currency images.

In serious cases, offenders may face civil penalties of up to Sh100,000.

The CBK further warns that it is not obligated to replace deliberately mutilated banknotes, meaning anyone who intentionally damages money may permanently lose its value.

Motara’s case is now expected to proceed to court as authorities continue to warn Kenyans against misusing or damaging the country’s currency.