University Student Charged with Hacking Journalist’s WhatsApp Account

A university student has been charged with hacking into a journalist’s WhatsApp account in Mombasa in a case that highlights the growing threat of cybercrime.

Cyrus Kibet Rono faces multiple charges under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act.

Charges Against the Student

Rono was arraigned before Mombasa Resident Magistrate Hon. Green Odera on Friday.

He faces charges of unauthorised access, access with intent to commit a further offence, identity theft, and impersonation.

Prosecutors say he hacked the journalist’s WhatsApp account with the intention to defraud contacts.

On 14th April 2026, police found him in possession of 39 Safaricom SIM card passwords suspected to have been fraudulently acquired.

Rono pleaded not guilty to all charges.

DPP Opposes Bail

Principal Prosecution Counsel Purity Musembi strongly opposed his release on bond. She cited ongoing investigations and the risk that the accused could interfere with evidence.

The investigating officer told the court that forensic analysis is being carried out on seized electronic devices. He added that Rono is linked to other similar offences.

What Happens Next

Magistrate Green Odera ordered Rono to be remanded at Urban Police Station until a ruling on his bail application.