The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has taken strong action in the case of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody.
As the case gains more attention, IPOA has now summoned Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Eliud Lagat to give a formal statement.
This move comes after serious claims were made linking Lagat directly to the events that led to Ojwang’s arrest and eventual death. Lagat is being questioned because of damning statements from Police Constable James Mukhwana, who claimed that Lagat and Chief Inspector Samson Talaam gave orders to “discipline” Ojwang.
These orders, according to the testimony, resulted in the death of the blogger. Lagat has admitted that he filed the initial complaint against Ojwang on June 6, but denies having anything to do with what happened afterward.
Despite his denial, pressure from the public has continued to grow, with many calling for his immediate suspension. His name has been trending on social media as human rights groups and political leaders demand accountability.IPOA’s statement confirmed that Lagat is required to appear before their investigations team.
According to IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan, this step was taken after enough evidence was found to justify questioning the DIG. So far, 20 officers have already given statements to IPOA, including the Deputy OCS of Central Police Station where Ojwang was held.
Both OCS Talaam and Constable Mukhwana have already been taken to court, while the Deputy OCS remains in custody at Muthaiga Police Station.The case has also involved civilians.
Four non-police suspects have appeared in court. One of them is accused of tampering with CCTV footage from the police station, raising concerns that there was an attempt to cover up the incident. The other three civilians are inmates who were at the same station when Ojwang died. IPOA believes these individuals could provide useful information about what happened that night.
To strengthen the case, IPOA is collecting more evidence. They have already sent biological samples to the government chemist for testing, and retrieved footage from the station’s DVR system.
Applications have also been made to mobile service providers to get phone records that may help trace who was communicating and giving instructions on June 6, the day Ojwang was arrested.IPOA is working closely with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and expects to finish the investigation soon.
Once completed, the findings will be handed to the ODPP with recommendations for prosecution. There is growing belief that even top police officials could face charges depending on the evidence. Lagat’s upcoming appearance before IPOA could determine whether he too will be charged or cleared.
Any sign of inconsistency in his statement may open the door for criminal proceedings or disciplinary action.Civil society groups are not waiting quietly. Protests are being planned, with organizers demanding that Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen suspend Lagat immediately.
Many believe that keeping him in office while investigations continue sends the wrong message. Although Lagat has maintained his innocence and says he will fully cooperate, public trust in the police service continues to fall.
The focus will be on whether IPOA and the ODPP will finally hold high-ranking officers accountable in a case that has shocked the country.
