- IG Douglas Kanja says DIG Lagat filed the complaint that led to Ojwang’s arrest.
- Ojwang’ was accused of defaming Lagat and later died in police custody.
- Investigations are ongoing both internally and by IPOA.
- IPOA promises transparency and justice for the family.
- Officers on duty during Ojwang’s detention have been interdicted.
- Public outrage continues, with Rigathi Gachagua demanding Lagat’s suspension.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has come out to confirm that Deputy Inspector General Eliud Kipkoech Lagat was the person who filed the complaint that led to the arrest of Albert Ojwang’. Ojwang’, a young man from Homa Bay, later died while in police custody under unclear circumstances.
Kanja, speaking during a press briefing on Monday, stated that the complaint was about defamation.
“The DIG felt his name had been tarnished. He filed the complaint as he is also entitled to legal protection,” said the IG.
From Arrest to Death – Questions Over Custody Procedures
According to reports, Ojwang’ was arrested from his home on Saturday and transported to Nairobi, where he was held at the Central Police Station. Shockingly, by the next day, he was found unconscious in his cell and later confirmed dead at Mbagathi Hospital.
A police statement indicated that he had allegedly harmed himself by hitting his head on the wall. The explanation has since been met with public doubt.
IPOA and Internal Probes Launched
IG Kanja noted that investigations have already started, both within the police service and externally. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) confirmed it is also probing the incident to establish facts and ensure transparency.
“I saw Ojwang’s father crying on TV. That pain is real for any parent. IPOA will do everything to make sure justice is served,” said IPOA Chairperson Isaac Hassan.
Officers on Duty Suspended, to Be Questioned
The officers who were in charge during the time Ojwang’ was held have since been interdicted. They are expected to record statements as authorities try to piece together what transpired inside that cell.
The move is seen as the first step toward accountability, though many Kenyans are still demanding more serious action.
Political Pressure Mounts as Gachagua Points at DIG Lagat
The tragic death has sparked serious political debate. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has directly blamed DIG Lagat for the arrest and what followed. He is demanding immediate suspension of the senior police officer, calling Central and Kamukunji stations the new torture zones.
Gachagua accused Lagat of acting independently and disregarding the authority of IG Kanja.
A Nation Demands Answers
As pressure piles on, many are watching how the investigations unfold. Ojwang’s case has reignited questions around police conduct, abuse of office, and the safety of detainees in Kenyan police stations.
The family, human rights bodies, and Gen Z supporters are demanding justice—not just for Ojwang’, but for all victims of unchecked police actions.
