The family of the slain blogger and teacher, Albert Ojwang, has raised concerns over theft and reversal of funds submitted via M-Pesa for Albert’s burial.

Ojwang's paternal uncle, Herman Opiyo, claims some people hacked Ojwang's father's M-Pesa line and made away with the money. However, he did not reveal how much was stolen.

Opiyo said Meshack Ojwang suddenly realised that his telephone line, which had money, was not working last weekend. Upon scrutiny, the senior Ojwang realised that the money mourners had sent had been withdrawn.

Meshack has been receiving money from Kenyans following an initiative spearheaded by comedian Erick Omondi.

“My brother had money in his M-Pesa account, but he suddenly realised that calls or messages sent through that line were not going through. He became suspicious, only to realise that he had lost money," Opiyo said.

The Nairobian further spoke to the family spokesman, Kenneth Ouma, who said the matter is under investigation.

“The money was stolen, but we have handed the matter to Safaricom to do their investigations and give us the report,” Ouma said.

Some of those who made their contributions are said to have made reversals. Opiyo condemned the reversals, saying they amount to mockery.

“Some people had sent their contributions to the family via M-Pesa, but they reversed it after some time. Let us treat the family with dignity and avoid this mockery,” he added.

Opiyo appealed to Kenyans to stop attacking the family on social media platforms.

Social media users have been attacking the family, especially after it received Sh2 million from President William Ruto. ODM leader Raila Odinga also made a Sh1 million contribution to boost burial arrangements. 

The amount was delivered by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga. Opiyo cautioned against the online campaign targeting the family over the cash donations. 

“The leaders gave their generous contributions in good faith, hence the family should not be castigated,” he said. Ojwang will be buried on July 4.