Popular Kikuyu gospel artiste Waithaka Wa Jane has been thrust into the spotlight after being arrested in Berlin, Germany, earlier this week. The news triggered a wave of speculation on social media, with some reports alleging immigration violations and drug possession.
The story first surfaced on TikTok through Kameme FM presenter Muthoni Wa Kirumba, also known as Baby Top, who shared details of a call revealing Waithaka’s detainment. “Waithaka was arrested by immigration officers. So the question was, why was he in Germany, yet the show had been cancelled?” she said. “He was detained since 7 am. We have cried a lot with Adrian.”
According to Baby Top, a German promoter, Rafikiz (Mr. Kamau), had informed them via email that Waithaka’s show had been cancelled. Despite this, the artiste reportedly still traveled on an artist visa issued by Connect Africa Management for a Europe tour set to begin on October 18 in Frankfurt.
Waithaka Responds
Amid growing rumors, Waithaka Wa Jane directly addressed his fans in a candid TikTok video. He dismissed allegations of drug possession, saying: “Me? Drugs? The son of an Akurino woman! Mama Elijah.”
He recounted being strip-searched and held in a cell at the Berlin airport, describing the experience as harrowing but insisting he had nothing to hide. “The cells here at the airport are nicer than back home. I was frightened, but I didn’t want to show them.”
Conflicting Reports
Content creator Wanja Nyarari strongly criticized the allegations, noting that there was “no record of drug trafficking anywhere” and warning against tarnishing the image of German immigration officers.
An open letter circulating online has called for intervention from President William Ruto, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, the German Embassy in Nairobi, and Ambassador Stella Orina. The letter insists Waithaka’s visa was legitimate and linked to a scheduled Europe tour.
What We Know So Far
- Waithaka Wa Jane was arrested at Berlin airport over alleged visa and drug issues.
- He has since been released and denies any involvement with drugs.
- His visa was reportedly tied to a European music tour under Connect Africa Management.
- Promoter disputes and miscommunication may have contributed to the chaos.
- No official statements have been issued by German immigration or the Kenyan Embassy in Berlin.
For now, the arrest has sparked public outcry and divided opinions both in Kenya and abroad, with many urging artistes to secure proper documentation to avoid similar incidents.