The DCI Kenya Twitter account offers a diverse array of content, ranging from minor offenses and major arrests to intense pursuits, legal resolutions, and often amusing incidents. Whenever an arrest or operation is posted, Kenyans flock to the comment section, showing considerable enthusiasm and sometimes even excitement.
Over time, the page has shared stories that captivated the nation. These tales have spanned from small-scale thefts like chicken pilfering in Karachuonyo to sudden and significant arrests of individuals involved in the ‘Wash Wash’ scheme in Kilimani.
No matter the nature of the crime, the account’s admin consistently employs literary techniques to craft vivid narratives, transporting readers to crime scenes in a surreal manner. Well-written accounts can even evoke sensory experiences, allowing readers to imagine the scent of violence through their devices.
As Tuesday evening drew to a close, the DCI’s Twitter page once again captured attention. This time, it featured an arrest that resonated across the internet, stirring discussions and inundating timelines.
Unlike past incidents involving teenagers cleaning out an M-PESA shop in Mlango Kubwa, this case centered on the discovery of millions of shillings stashed in sacks, various drug-related items, a notorious neighborhood, and the unmasking of a woman who was only previously whispered about.
Kenyans read in almost awe as the DCI detailed their ‘recovery of Ksh. 13 million in an anti-narcotics operation.’ As the story unfolded, intrigue grew, as people were introduced, possibly for the first time, to the face behind the infamous name ‘Kwa Mathe wa Ngara’.
‘Kwa Mathe wa Ngara’ holds such significance that it is searchable on Google Maps. Unlike numerous other places labeled ‘Kwa Mathe,’ especially in informal settlements, the Ngara ‘Mathe’ seems to possess more power, command a larger portion of the population, wield greater influence, and extend longer reach, allowing her to manipulate the law and dominate her rivals singlehandedly.
Within an hour of the story’s release, memes began circulating. However, initial confusion arose when the ‘National Police Service’ claimed that Ksh. 12.9 million was seized, while the DCI’s page reported Ksh. 13.4 million.
The name ‘Kwa Mathe’ rapidly became part of Kenyan Twitter lingo, prompting people to turn to Google to understand the woman behind it and the significance of ‘Kwa Mathe’, leading to the widespread cry of ‘Free Mathe’.
In a parallel to the US practice of rallying around arrested rappers like Young Thug or Gunna with chants of ‘Free Young Thug!’, Kenyan Twitter users united in proclaiming ‘Free Mathe!’ Similarities were also drawn between the woman and the main character of the American crime drama ‘Queen of the South’, with her face being compared to that of the star, Teresa Mendoza.
Some even took the comparisons further, likening her to ‘El Chapo’. When a fervent supporter of ‘Mathe’ challenged the DCI by stating, ‘You can arrest Mathe but you cannot arrest Kwa Mathe,’ the response was unexpectedly witty: ‘Sawa. Tupatane Kwa Mathe mapema!’ (‘Alright. Let’s meet at Mathe’s place early!’)
The influence of ‘Mathe’ in Ngara seems extensive, involving a significant portion of Nairobi’s youth in her illicit activities. Five years ago, a local TV station documented visits to the sprawling ‘Kwa Mathe’ slums, revealing men rolling marijuana joints and even young schoolboys among her clientele. The environment is guarded by potentially lethal gangs, observing every move in silence.
According to the DCI, the woman featured alongside sacks of money is 54-year-old Teresia Wanjiru. Yet, many Kenyans remain uncertain whether she is truly the infamous ‘Mathe’, with some disputing the story and insisting that the actual, formidable ‘Mathee’ continues to roam freely, exerting control over her territory and causing significant chaos.
Currently, the intricate details of ‘Kwa Mathe wa Ngara’ remain elusive. Delving into this mystery might not only spoil the narrative but also tarnish its legendary reputation.