Multichoice, in partnership with the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) and other enforcement agencies, has arrested a man accused of illegally distributing and reselling copyrighted television content in Kenya.
The suspect, identified as Kelvin Kiplagat Singóei, was apprehended in Kiplombe, Uasin Gishu County, following an extensive investigation into an online piracy network that had been unlawfully streaming premium sports and entertainment channels. The illicit services were reportedly marketed across social media and digital platforms, offering subscribers access to pay-TV content without authorization or licenses.
Speaking on the development, George Nyakweba, Acting Executive Director of KECOBO, explained that illegal streaming operations not only rob creators and broadcasters of legitimate earnings but also weaken investment in local content production, sports development, and media employment. He warned that consumers who subscribe to such services risk exposing their personal and financial data to criminal networks.
Investigators discovered that the piracy network relied on unverified online payment systems and unregulated streaming applications that compromised user safety. Many subscribers were required to share personal details and make digital payments through unsafe channels, leaving them vulnerable to data theft, identity fraud, and malware infections.
Nyakweba further emphasized the board’s commitment to working with industry stakeholders and security agencies to curb digital piracy. He noted that copyright violations harm Kenya’s creative economy by reducing revenue for content creators, legitimate broadcasters, and the government. He also pointed out that unlicensed operators often evade taxation and regulatory oversight, resulting in significant financial losses to the state and lawful businesses.
Following his arrest, Singóei was arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Eldoret on October 7, 2025. He was granted bail of KSh300,000, with a surety of the same amount. The case has been slated for pre-trial mention on October 13, 2025, as authorities continue gathering evidence and witness testimonies.
Multichoice, through its anti-piracy partners, praised KECOBO, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and other agencies for their collaborative efforts in tackling the rising wave of digital piracy in Kenya. The company reaffirmed its commitment to protecting intellectual property and supporting a fair, sustainable creative industry.
