In a startling development that has intensified public outrage over the suspicious death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has clarified that Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat was not interrogated by senior IPOA officials. Instead, he was questioned solely by the Authority’s technical investigation team.
The confirmation was made late Friday by IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan, in a statement aimed at dispelling rumors amplified by a national daily. Eyewitnesses heard reports suggesting that the DIG had faced direct questioning from the IPOA Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer—allegations now dismissed by the watchdog as baseless.
“Contrary to the allegation… Eliud Lagat was not interrogated by the IPOA Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer. He was received by the technical investigation team handling the matter,” Hassan stated.
Investigative Integrity Under Scrutiny
The IPOA stressed that its structural setup requires a clear division between policy leadership and operational investigators. This arrangement, according to Hassan, safeguards the impartiality and integrity of the probe into Ojwang’s death.
To date, DIG Lagat is the 22nd police officer to be formally questioned in connection with events leading to Ojwang’s death in custody, signaling the breadth of the inquiry.
Alleged Extortion Linked to DIG’s Phone
The IPOA further disclosed it has taken custody of a mobile phone belonging to Chief Inspector Talaam, which is now under forensic analysis. The device is suspected to have been used in a scheme to extort money from the public.
Issack Hassan confirmed that IPOA has referred the matter to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), which has been mandated to file a formal report by July 1, 2025.
Albert Ojwang’s Death: Flashpoint for National Outrage
The death of 31-year-old Albert Ojwang on June 8, 2025, while in Nairobi police custody, has ignited a wave of public anger and mass protest. An official autopsy revealed that Ojwang died from physical assault—showing signs of head trauma, neck compression, and multiple serious injuries—contradicting earlier police claims of suicide.
The incident has sparked nationwide condemnation, reminiscent of last year’s demonstrations against police brutality. President William Ruto himself acknowledged the incident as “heartbreaking and unacceptable,” while families, activists, and rights groups continue to demand accountability.
Institutional Response and Next Moves
- IPOA’s Stance: The watchdog insists that no senior leadership influenced the DIG’s interrogation, underscoring commitment to transparent process.
- DCI Involvement: Investigations into alleged extortion via Inspector Talaam’s phone are ongoing, with reporting due by July 1.
- Public Demand: Citizens continue to call for a full accounting of events, including any possible chain-of-command implications.
Why This Matters
- Rule of Law: The clarity provided by IPOA highlights the delicate balance between political oversight and independent investigative procedures.
- Public Trust: With over 20 officers under scrutiny, the outcome of this inquiry could define Kenya’s stance on police accountability and set precedents for future oversight.
- Broader Implications: The case has become a lightning rod in national debates over institutional reform and human rights protections.
What to Watch
- DCI Report: Will details from Inspector Talaam’s phone provide leads on wider corruption?
- IPOA Follow-Up: Will IPOA chair and CEO break further silence—or escalate transparency?
- Judicial Process: Evidence emerging from investigations may lead to prosecutions and legal reform.
This scandal is rapidly evolving and may mark a pivotal moment in how Kenya addresses policing, transparency, and justice. Stay tuned as the probe advances and outcomes emerge.
