HOMA BAY, Kenya — Mawego Police Station in Homa Bay County was set ablaze on Thursday by enraged protesters carrying the coffin of Albert Ojwang.
Ojwang had been initially detained at Mawego Police Station in early June before his transfer to Nairobi, where he later died in police custody at Central Police Station, igniting widespread public outrage.
Witnesses reported that a procession of mostly young demonstrators arrived at the station shortly before noon, chanting slogans and demanding justice, with Ojwang’s coffin in tow.
Tensions escalated rapidly as some protesters breached the gates and began pelting the buildings with stones.
Within moments, parts of the station were engulfed in flames, reportedly destroying furniture and police files. Overwhelmed, police officers at the station were forced to flee as the crowd overran the compound.
Albert Ojwang’s death has sparked a wave of anger across the region, prompting calls for thorough investigations from civil society groups and political leaders.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has already initiated a probe into the matter, and several police officers who interacted with Ojwang during his detention have recorded statements.
A solemn atmosphere filled Ridgeways Baptist Church on July 2 as family, friends, and members of the public gathered to honor the memory of the slain teacher and blogger, Albert Ojwang.
Human rights activists and close friends were among those present to pay their last respects.
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Emotional scenes unfolded, with cries of pain audible both inside and outside the church. Some family members broke down in tears as they placed their hands on Ojwang’s coffin, while others embraced, seeking to comfort one another.
Former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi also attended the service. Police officers were strategically positioned around the church to provide security and maintain order.
Ridgeways Baptist Church extended its condolences to the grieving family. Before reading the eulogy, the pastor encouraged the family and the nation to remain strong during this painful period.
“We are praying for you. May the Lord give you strength and courage to go through this,” the pastor stated, urging Kenyans to support Ojwang’s family as they grapple with his sudden death.
