NAIROBI, Kenya — The Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Kipkoech Lagat, has formally stepped aside from his duties as investigations intensify into the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang’.
Ojwang’s arrest had followed a defamation complaint allegedly filed by the senior officer.
In a statement issued on Monday June 16, 2025, Lagat affirmed that his decision was made “in good and conscious thought” of the gravity of his office and the significant public interest surrounding the case.
“I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General – Kenya Police Service pending completion of investigations,” said Lagat.
He further clarified, “The functions of the office will henceforth be performed by my deputy until the investigations are concluded.” Lagat also pledged his full cooperation with the investigating authorities and extended his condolences to Ojwang’s family, adding: “I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident.”
Ojwang’s death in police custody has ignited widespread national outrage, leading to growing calls for accountability from high-ranking police officials.
The blogger was arrested shortly after publishing allegations of corruption that directly implicated Lagat, particularly concerning the strategic placement of officers within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and traffic units—positions allegedly linked to revenue and intelligence control.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, during his appearance before the Senate on June 11, confirmed that a probe into Lagat had been initiated following viral online posts. These posts accused Lagat of deep-seated corruption and linked him to the alleged purchase of a $2.6 million property in Dubai. One of the circulating posts notably carried a caption branding Lagat a “mafia police” figure.
Public pressure intensified last week after demonstrations erupted, demanding Lagat’s resignation. The outrage reached a new peak following remarks by former Chief Justice David Maraga, who on Monday publicly called for Lagat’s immediate arrest and prosecution. Maraga cited what he described as prima facie evidence connecting Lagat to Ojwang’s arrest, torture, and eventual death.
“There is prima facie evidence that Mr. Eliud Lagat — directly or indirectly, by himself or through his accomplices — is implicated in the illegal arrest, torture, strangulation, and eventual murder of the late Albert Ojwang’,” said Maraga. He concluded: “It is now time to immediately arrest and institute prosecutions against Mr. Lagat.”
As the comprehensive investigation unfolds, several individuals have already been apprehended. These include Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam and Police Constable James Mukhwana.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has also detained three civilian detainees—Gin Ammitou Abwao, Collins Karani Ireri, and Brian Mwaniki Njue—who were held at the same station during Ojwang’s detention.
Authorities allege that this trio was used by police to torture Ojwang’, ultimately contributing to his death.
Ojwang’s death, occurring while in police custody, has once again brought to the forefront critical concerns regarding extrajudicial practices, impunity, and the urgent need for comprehensive institutional reform within Kenya’s security apparatus.
