NAIROBI — The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has dismissed reports suggesting it has cleared Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat in the investigation into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang.
In a statement issued Monday, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan said the inquiry remains active and no officer, including Lagat, has been exonerated.
“Preliminary investigations identified some suspects who have since been charged in court,” Hassan said. “However, IPOA’s investigation is still ongoing, and any reports indicating that Mr. Lagat has been cleared are false.”
Hassan added that the authority will take appropriate action if its findings implicate Lagat.
The clarification followed a High Court ruling earlier in the day, where Justice Chacha Mwita declined to issue interim orders blocking Lagat from resuming his duties. Activist Eliud Matindi had filed a petition seeking to bar Lagat from office, citing concerns over integrity and accountability.
Justice Mwita directed Lagat to respond to the petition by July 23 and emphasized the need for all parties to be heard before any ruling is made.
Ojwang, a 26-year-old digital activist, died in June while in custody at Nairobi Central Police Station. He had been arrested over a social media post criticizing Lagat. Police initially claimed he collapsed in detention, but an independent autopsy contradicted that account.
The autopsy revealed blunt force injuries, neck compression, and multiple internal wounds findings consistent with torture.
Lagat stepped aside from his post on June 16 amid growing public anger. In a statement, he said his decision was meant to uphold the credibility of the investigation and pledged full cooperation.
“I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident,” Lagat said.
President William Ruto later condemned Ojwang’s death, promising a thorough probe and accountability for anyone involved.
Two police officers and three civilian detainees have since been charged in connection with the incident. The Officer Commanding Nairobi Central Police Station was also arrested.
IPOA’s investigation includes a forensic review of CCTV footage from the station, which had reportedly been tampered with.
Ojwang’s death sparked widespread street protests in Nairobi earlier this month, with demonstrators demanding justice, police accountability, and reform of the security sector.
The case remains under public scrutiny as court proceedings and IPOA’s probe continue.
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