Last Updated on April 24, 2026 by courtnews reporter

Kwikbet: Safaricom Data Scandal – DCI Report Links Betting Firm to Stolen Subscriber Data (2026)

Updated: April 24, 2026 | CourtNews Kenya

Kwikbet Safaricom Data Scandal Kenya Overview

Kwikbet Safaricom data scandal Kenya is at the center of a major controversy involving alleged purchase of stolen Safaricom subscriber data.

The case raises serious concerns about data privacy, illegal data trade, and the betting industry in Kenya. It is currently linked to ongoing court proceedings.

read:KwikBet Users Raise Concerns Over Delayed Account Closure and Self-Exclusion in Kenya

Background of the Case

Kwikbet has operated quietly in Kenya’s betting industry since 2017.

However, a forensic report by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) now places the company among firms that allegedly purchased stolen Safaricom subscriber data.

The report shows that the data included:

• Betting history and gambling behavior

• M-Pesa transaction records

• Identity details and geolocation data

This dataset reportedly covered millions of Kenyans.

What is the case about?

The case involves:

• Alleged purchase of stolen Safaricom data

• Use of sensitive subscriber information for commercial gain

• Links between betting firms and illegal data networks

Additionally, investigations indicate the data was sold in segments to multiple companies, including Kwikbet.

Solami Limited and Kwikbet

Kwikbet operates under Solami Limited, a company registered in Kenya.

However:

• Its ownership structure is not publicly disclosed

• It has maintained a low public profile

• It continued to grow despite limited visibility

Meanwhile, the forensic record links it to the same data network involving other betting firms.

Growth After Betting Crackdown

In 2019, the government shut down several major betting companies.

Kwikbet was among those that remained operational.

Within weeks:

• Its users grew from about 15,000 to 85,000

• It became one of the fastest-growing platforms

The forensic report suggests that access to detailed gambling data may have influenced this growth.

Legal and Regulatory Concerns

The Kwikbet Safaricom data scandal Kenya raises serious legal issues:

• Possible violations of the Data Protection Act

• Breaches under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act

• Regulatory questions for licensing authorities

Additionally, regulators may examine whether the company remains fit to operate.

Why the Case Matters

This case is important because:

• It affects data privacy rights of millions of Kenyans

• It raises concerns about illegal data markets

• It may influence regulation of betting companies

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kwikbet case?

It involves allegations that Kwikbet purchased stolen Safaricom subscriber data.

What type of data was involved?

Betting history, M-Pesa transactions, identity details and location data.

Is the case under investigation?

Yes, it is linked to forensic findings and court proceedings.