DIG Lagat Grilled Over Death of Albert Ojwang in Police Custody
Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat spent three hours on Thursday at the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) headquarters recording a statement over the death of Albert Ojwang, a 25-year-old digital influencer who died inside Central Police Station in Nairobi.
Ojwang was found dead on June 7 after reportedly being beaten and strangled while in police custody. Lagat arrived at IPOA’s offices around midday, accompanied by legal counsel. The session marks the highest-level police questioning related to a death in custody since the agency’s formation in 2012.
IPOA confirmed Lagat’s statement will undergo further analysis. The Authority said it is examining whether Lagat communicated with any officers linked to Ojwang’s arrest or death. The Authority has already obtained mobile phone records and requested additional data from service providers.
Ojwang was reportedly arrested at his home in Homa Bay and transferred to Nairobi Central Police station days before his death. His death sparked national outrage and led to Lagat stepping aside from his position on June 17.
“In the good and conscious thought of my role and responsibilities… I have today opted to step aside… pending completion of investigations,” Lagat said in a written statement issued Monday. He also offered a public apology to Ojwang’s family.
As of Wednesday, IPOA confirmed that 20 officers had recorded statements, including Inspector Samuel Ng’ang’a, the Deputy OCS of Central Police Station. Two officers OCS Samson Talaam and Constable James Mukhwana have already been arraigned and are in custody for 14 days while investigations continue.
IPOA Chairperson Isaak Hassan said the agency has also detained civilians linked to the case. Kelvin Mutisya Mutava is accused of tampering with CCTV evidence. Brian Mwaniki Njue, Collins Karani, and Gin Ammitou who were inmates at the station on the day of Ojwang’s death were also presented in court.
A DVR system seized from Central Police Station and biological samples taken for forensic examination are now under review by the Government Chemist.
IPOA stated it is working closely with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and expects to complete the file with charging recommendations early next week.
“The Authority appeals for calm and assures Kenyans that… there will be no sacred cows. Anyone found culpable will be prosecuted,” IPOA said in a formal statement.
Ojwang’s death has become a focal point in Kenya’s ongoing concerns over police conduct and custodial deaths. The outcome of this investigation is expected to set a precedent for future accountability efforts.
