NAIROBI — A growing storm surrounds the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang, a 35-year-old man who died while in police custody in Nairobi. The fallout has now reached the city’s Central Police Station, where several senior officers have been suspended as investigations deepen.
The Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome, has ordered the immediate interdiction of the Officer Commanding Station, the duty officer, the cell sentry, and all officers who were present at the report office on the night Ojwang died. Other officers connected to the incident are also under scrutiny.
Ojwang had been arrested on Saturday at his home in Kakot, Homa Bay County, over allegations of spreading false information online. He was driven to Nairobi and held at the Central Police Station.
Less than 24 hours later, he was dead.
According to police, Ojwang sustained fatal head injuries after allegedly hitting his head against a cell wall. Officers reportedly rushed him to Mbagathi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
“Albert Omondi Ojwang was lawfully arrested by DCI detectives for false publication and placed in custody,” said National Police Service Spokesman Muchiri Nyagah in a statement. “While in custody, the suspect sustained head injuries after hitting his head against the cell wall.”
The circumstances have sparked public concern and drawn the attention of oversight authorities. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation into Ojwang’s death.
“Every death in police custody raises serious concerns and must be independently reviewed,” IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan told reporters this morning at the station.
Ojwang’s family and legal team have disputed the official account and are demanding answers. “He was in their custody. They were responsible for his safety,” said James Otieno, a lawyer for the family. “We need full transparency.”
This morning, Inspector General Koome and IPOA officials visited the Central Police Station. A post-mortem examination is expected later today at City Mortuary, where Ojwang’s body remains.
The case has stirred wider debate about police conduct and accountability in Kenya. Past custody deaths have often led to public outrage but few convictions.
For now, Ojwang’s family is left grieving and waiting. “We just want the truth,” said his sister, Lydia Omondi. “We want to know what really happened to Albert in that cell.”
Authorities say they are treating the matter seriously. But for many watching closely, the test will be whether justice follows.
