Kenya Insights

Tag: Albert Omondi Ojwang

  • Kenyan Youths Should Not Live in Fear: Moha Jicho Pevu Breaks Silence with Seven Key Questions in Albert Ojwang’s Death

    Kenyan Youths Should Not Live in Fear: Moha Jicho Pevu Breaks Silence with Seven Key Questions in Albert Ojwang’s Death

    Nairobi, Kenya – June 10, 2025 – Renowned Kenyan journalist Mohammed Ali, known as Moha Jicho Pevu, has broken his silence on the controversial death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old blogger and digital activist found dead in police custody.

    In a pointed post on X, Ali demanded justice and raised seven critical questions targeting Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, whom he accuses of being a prime suspect in Ojwang’s murder.

    The case has ignited nationwide outrage, with protests erupting in Nairobi and calls for accountability growing louder.

    Ojwang, a teacher and social media commentator known for his bold political critiques, was arrested in Homa Bay on Friday following a complaint by Lagat, who alleged that Ojwang had defamed him on X.

    Despite the availability of local police stations, Ojwang was transferred over 350 kilometers to Nairobi’s Central Police Station. Initial police reports claimed he sustained fatal head injuries after hitting his head against a cell wall.

    However, an autopsy conducted on Monday revealed evidence of head injuries, neck compression, and multiple soft tissue traumas—findings that point to torture and murder rather than self-inflicted wounds.

    In his X post, Ali leveraged his background as an investigative journalist to pose pointed questions unraveling the mystery surrounding Ojwang’s death.

    “Why is the complainant [Lagat] not already named a person of interest in this brutal murder? Why was Albert moved all the way to Nairobi? Why wasn’t the complainant interdicted?” he asked, among other queries challenging the police narrative.

    Ali concluded with a resounding call: “Justice must be served, and DIG Eliud Lagat must resign immediately as he is a person of interest and prime suspect number one.”

    The autopsy findings have fueled public anger, with dozens of activists staging protests outside the Central Police Station on Tuesday.

    Chanting “Stop killing us,” demonstrators demanded transparency and the arrest of those responsible.

    Ojwang’s family lawyer, Julius Juma, highlighted visible signs of severe beating—swelling on the head, nose, and ears, and bruises on his shoulders and hands—further contradicting the police’s initial account.

    “This was no accident; this was a calculated act,” Juma told reporters.

    The incident has reignited concerns over Kenya’s troubling history of police brutality, drawing parallels to last year’s crackdown on youth protests against a controversial finance bill, which left dozens dead and hundreds injured.

    Activists also point to the recent case of software developer Rose Njeri, charged under cybercrime laws for creating a tool to oppose the same bill, as evidence of a growing clampdown on digital activism.

    The Digital Content Creators Association of Kenya hailed Ojwang as a voice for the youth, amplifying demands for justice amid rising state repression.

    Amnesty International’s Kenya branch, led by Irungu Houghton, labeled the death “very suspicious” and urged independent investigators to treat the Nairobi police station as a crime scene.

    “The long journey from Homa Bay to Nairobi raises serious questions about the intent behind his transfer,” Houghton said.

    Meanwhile, veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga issued a statement condemning the killing, adding it to a growing list of police-related deaths of young Kenyans exercising their right to free speech.

    In response to mounting pressure, senior officers at the Central Police Station have been interdicted, meaning they are suspended with half pay pending an investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).

    However, no arrests have been made, and Lagat remains in his position, prompting accusations of a cover-up.

    The National Police Service issued a press statement on June 8 attempting to clarify the incident, but public trust has eroded, with social media users dismissing the claim of self-inflicted injuries as implausible.

    The case has sparked a constitutional debate, with citizens invoking Chapter One of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, which asserts that all sovereign power belongs to the people.

    Protesters and online activists, including lawyer Nelson Havi, have called for Lagat’s arrest, arguing that resignation alone is insufficient.

    “Eliud Lagat should be prosecuted for murder,” Havi wrote on X, echoing a sentiment shared by thousands under the trending hashtag #JusticeForAlbertOjwang.

    As the nation grapples with this tragedy, Mohammed Ali’s return to his investigative roots has rekindled hope among Kenyans who once admired his tenacity.

    “Kenyan youth should not live in constant fear of their lives because of digital activism. This is not the Kenya we envision for ourselves or our children,” Ali declared.

    With protests intensifying and international attention growing—highlighted by BBC coverage of the Nairobi demonstrations—pressure is mounting on Kenyan authorities to deliver justice for Albert Ojwang and restore faith in the rule of law.

  • Former Chief Justice Maraga Demands Government Shutdown Over Albert’s Death

    Former Chief Justice Maraga Demands Government Shutdown Over Albert’s Death

    Former CJ cites rising police brutality and constitutional crisis in unprecedented call for regime change

    NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Chief Justice David Maraga has issued an unprecedented demand for the immediate shutdown of President William Ruto’s administration, citing the death of blogger Albert Omondi Ojwang in police custody as evidence of a “constitutional and moral crisis.”

    In a statement released Tuesday through his presidential campaign secretariat, Maraga accused the government of enabling “lawlessness, brutality, and widespread human rights abuses,” declaring that Ojwang’s death represents “the last straw” in what he describes as a pattern of state-sponsored violence.

    The former chief justice’s call comes after forensic pathologist Bernard Midia released autopsy findings that directly contradict official police accounts of Ojwang’s death.

    Leading a team of five experts at Nairobi Funeral Home, Midia concluded that the activist’s injuries were “consistent with a physical struggle” and unlikely to be self-inflicted.

    “When you combine all the injuries in the body, they are consistent with a struggle,” Midia stated. “The injuries were widespread across the body, including the head, back, and limbs.”

    Police had claimed Ojwang fatally injured himself by hitting his head against a wall while in custody at Central Police Station, Nairobi.

    The blogger had been arrested over social media posts regarding alleged corruption linked to Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Langat.

    Maraga’s statement presents disturbing statistics, claiming that enforced disappearances and police killings have risen by 450 percent over the past year under the Ruto administration.

    The former chief justice characterized this as evidence of “geometric progression” in state repression.

    “We refuse to be a country where parents have their children kidnapped in broad daylight, tortured, and killed by state-sponsored terror,” the statement declared.

    “It is not normal, not acceptable and totally indefensible for enforced disappearance to rise by 450% in one year.”

    In his most dramatic demand yet, Maraga called for what he terms a “national reset” based on rule of law, human dignity, and institutional accountability.

    The former chief justice, who appears to be positioning himself for a potential presidential run with his “Maraga ’27” campaign, argued that the current administration has lost its legitimacy to govern.

    “It is abundantly clear that this regime will not and cannot govern,” Maraga stated.

    “We now demand the regime shut down and make way for a reset to the rule of law and accountability; a restoration to the values respecting human life; and a rebuilding of our nation’s institutions that now point towards State failure.”

    The Maraga statement, issued just two days after an initial press release on June 8, links Ojwang’s death to what it describes as a systematic pattern of state repression.

    The campaign highlighted concerns about digital rights, noting that both Ojwang and another blogger, Kelvin Moinde, were arrested over online posts.

    “Digital rights must be protected as human rights to ensure the freedom of expression and access to information,” the statement emphasized.

    “That this regime can kill, kidnap and torture anyone over the use of digital spaces speaks to the government’s loss of legitimacy.”

    Maraga’s intervention carries significant weight given his former position as the country’s top judicial officer from 2016 to 2021.

    His demand for regime shutdown represents one of the most direct challenges to President Ruto’s administration from a former high-ranking official.

    The timing is particularly sensitive, coming nearly one year after what Maraga describes as the beginning of increased state violence against young Kenyans.

    As of press time, the Ruto administration had not issued an official response to Maraga’s demands.

    However, the government faces mounting pressure from multiple quarters, with ODM leaders calling for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Lagat and Senator Crystal Asige demanding the dismissal of Inspector General Kanja.

    National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has ordered the Security Committee to table a report on Ojwang’s death within 48 hours, indicating that the matter will receive parliamentary scrutiny.

    Maraga’s statement frames the current situation as both a constitutional and moral crisis, arguing that the administration has abandoned fundamental principles of governance.

    The former chief justice emphasized that the country must “draw the line against impunity and the breakdown of the rule of law.”

    The use of hashtags #ThePeopleShall and #ResetRebuildRestore in Maraga’s social media posts suggests an attempt to mobilize public opinion around his demands for regime change.

  • Silas Jakakimba Calls for US, UK Investigative Expertise in Albert Ojwang Death Probe

    Silas Jakakimba Calls for US, UK Investigative Expertise in Albert Ojwang Death Probe

    Silas Jakakimba urges Kenya to tap international partnerships as pressure mounts for transparent investigation into blogger’s controversial death in police custody

    NAIROBI, Kenya – United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party Homa Bay Secretary Silas Jakakimba has made an unprecedented call for Kenya to leverage its bilateral security partnerships with the United States and United Kingdom to strengthen the investigation into the controversial death of Albert Ojwang in police custody.

    In a strongly-worded statement released on Tuesday, June 10, Jakakimba described Ojwang’s death as occurring under “horrendous circumstances” and demanded swift action from the National Police Service (NPS), which he noted now operates with greater autonomy following President William Ruto’s executive directive issued shortly after taking office.

    Call for International Expertise

    The former aide to opposition leader Raila Odinga, who defected to the ruling UDA party in March 2024, suggested that Kenya should consider “tapping into its bilateral security partnerships with the United States and the United Kingdom to bolster the investigation.”

    This marks the first time a senior government party official has publicly suggested international involvement in what has become a highly contentious case that has drawn condemnation from human rights organizations and political leaders across the spectrum.

    “A life lost is one too many for the family, friends, relatives, and of course, the nation to bear,” Jakakimba stated, underscoring the need for fast, independent, and open investigations.

    The Albert Ojwang Case

    Albert Ojwang, an educator from Voi in his 30s, was arrested in Migori Town while visiting on Saturday, June 8, over a post he allegedly made on the social media platform X.

    They later drove him to Nairobi and detained him at the Central Police Station.

    Ojwang, who had been arrested for alleged false publication, reportedly sustained fatal head injuries after hitting a cell wall.

    He was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

    However, the official police narrative has been disputed by family members and legal representatives.

    In a statement released by police, authorities claim Ojwang died after allegedly hitting his head against the wall while in custody a claim his family and legal representatives strongly dispute, describing the injuries as highly suspicious and inconsistent with self-harm.

    Autopsy Findings Challenge Official Account

    The case took a dramatic turn when Government pathologist Bernard Midia, after completing an autopsy on his body on Tuesday, revealed that Ojwang’ did not hit himself on the wall as earlier reported in a police report.

    According to the family’s lawyer, who spoke outside City Mortuary on June 9, Ojwang’s body had extensive injuries on the head, hands, and shoulder area.

    “The head was swollen all over, especially the frontal part, the nose, and the ear,” he stated.

    According to the lawyer, blood was visibly oozing from Ojwang’s nose and mouth when the body was viewed.

    Political Pressure Mounts

    The case has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum, including from opposition leader Raila Odinga, Jakakimba’s former boss, who issued his own statement condemning the death.

    “I have been deeply horrified by reports of a young Kenyan, Albert Ojwang, who was picked from Homa Bay and driven to his death in police cells in Nairobi,” Odinga said in a statement issued on Tuesday, June 10.

    Raila said the incident adds to “the horrifying long list of young and defenceless Kenyans whose lives have been taken too soon, in brutal and senseless circumstances, at the hands of the police.”

    Human rights organization Amnesty International Kenya also condemned the death, with the group expressing deep sadness over “the tragic death of Albert Ojwang, who died last night at the Central Police Station in Nairobi. No Kenyan should lose their life in police custody, and those entrusted with their protection.”

    Official Response and Investigations

    In response to mounting pressure, The Inspector General of the National Police Service Douglas Kanja has ordered the interdiction of several officers following the death of Albert Ojwang while in police custody at the Central Police Station.

    The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.

    Jakakimba’s statement is particularly significant given his unique position in Kenyan politics. Having served alongside Odinga for nearly 16 years, Jakakimba pledged his support to President William Ruto when he joined the UDA party last year.

    His call for international involvement in the investigation represents a notable departure from typical government party responses to such incidents and suggests growing concern within ruling party ranks about the case’s handling.

    In his statement, Jakakimba specifically referenced President Ruto’s executive order issued shortly after assuming office, which granted the police service greater autonomy. He urged that this independence be used to prioritize the sanctity of life and reaffirm the President’s commitment against extra-judicial killings.

    “It is urgent and necessary that The Service aligns its operations to give primacy and effect to the Constitutional dictates on Sanctity of Life,” Jakakimba stated.

    The death of Albert Ojwang has reignited concerns about police brutality in Kenya, particularly regarding the treatment of social media users critical of government policies or officials.

    Activists have questioned the cause of death and are calling for comprehensive reforms in how police handle suspects in custody.

    The case has also highlighted the contentious issue of arrests related to social media posts, raising questions about freedom of expression and the proportionality of law enforcement responses to online criticism.

    As investigations continue, the call for international expertise represents a significant escalation in demands for transparency and accountability.

    The involvement of US and UK investigative agencies, if it materializes, would mark an unusual step in a domestic criminal investigation.

    Jakakimba concluded his statement by offering “personal and heartfelt condolences” to Ojwang’s family, relatives, and friends, expressing hope that justice will not only be done but be seen to be done.

    The case continues to develop as Kenya grapples with questions about police accountability, freedom of expression, and the rule of law in an increasingly digital age.

  • Oburu Wants DIG Eliud Lagat Arrested in the Controversial Death of Albert Ojwang

    Oburu Wants DIG Eliud Lagat Arrested in the Controversial Death of Albert Ojwang

    Siaya Senator demands accountability as post-mortem reveals teacher died from assault, not self-inflicted injuries

    Siaya County Senator Oburu Odinga has intensified calls for the arrest and interrogation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat following the controversial death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher and social media influencer who died in police custody.

    Speaking in the Senate on Tuesday, Oburu questioned why senior police officials implicated in Ojwang’s death remain free while the case continues to spark nationwide outrage.

    “Why can’t he be arrested and interrogated? If we don’t tackle this case to the end, Kenyans won’t believe us,” Oburu stated, referring to DIG Lagat who had filed the defamation complaint that led to Ojwang’s arrest.

    The Senator’s demands come as a post-mortem examination revealed that Ojwang’s death was likely caused by assault rather than self-inflicted injuries, contradicting initial police statements that claimed he “hit his head against a cell wall.”

    Lead pathologist Dr. Bernard Midia reported finding soft tissue injuries and signs of neck compression on Ojwang’s body, stating: “These injuries are consistent with external assault. There were also signs of a struggle.”

    The pathologist noted frontal bleeding in the brain that was “unlikely to be self-inflicted,” directly challenging the police narrative of the teacher’s death at Nairobi’s Central Police Station on June 8.

    “Big Boys” Behind the Death

    DIG Eliud Lagat.
    DIG Eliud Lagat.

    Oburu dismissed suggestions that junior officers were responsible for Ojwang’s death, insisting it “was executed by the big boys” – referring to senior police officials.

    He questioned the legitimacy of the original arrest, arguing that the false publication charge did not warrant detention.

    “How could a senior police officer arrest someone just because he was making him infamous?” Oburu asked, adding, “What did the police officer want to do with fame?”

    The Senator drew parallels to other cases involving criticism of public figures, noting: “I have seen incidents where people are putting the president in a cell, and they are never arrested. Is this police officer bigger than the president?”

    Timeline of Events

    Ojwang was arrested on June 6 by DCI officers in Homa Bay following Lagat’s defamation complaint over social media posts. After being transferred to Nairobi, he was interrogated and booked on June 7 before being found unconscious during what police termed a “routine cell check” the following day.

    The family’s lawyer reported injuries consistent with torture, including head wounds and nasal bleeding, contradicting police claims about the circumstances of his death.

    Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo described the injuries as consistent with torture, calling it “extra-judicial execution” and demanding accountability from all involved officers.

    “Someone gave the order to pick him up from Homa Bay. Someone must be held accountable,” Odhiambo stated, promising continued pressure until every implicated officer faces consequences.

    In an emotional plea, Ojwang’s father directly addressed DIG Lagat: “Eliud Lagat, were you the one who sent your people? What did he do to deserve this? Why was my child crucified?”

    Inspector General Douglas Kanja has interdicted officers who were on duty during Ojwang’s detention, including the Officer Commanding Station.

    However, the Law Society of Kenya has criticized the lack of transparency, particularly the failure to publicly name the implicated officers.

    The incident triggered a series of protests in Nairobi, with demonstrators demanding justice for Ojwang and Lagat’s resignation.

    Former Chief Justice David Maraga and other legal experts have condemned the death as part of a growing pattern of state repression.

  • Raila Breaks Silence on the Death of Albert Ojwang, Gives Tough Demands to Ruto

    Raila Breaks Silence on the Death of Albert Ojwang, Gives Tough Demands to Ruto

    Opposition leader issues ultimatum from Bangkok as autopsy reveals crucial details in teacher’s custodial death

    Bangkok, Thailand – June 10, 2025 – Raila Odinga, Kenya’s veteran opposition leader, has issued a powerful statement from Bangkok condemning the death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher and social media influencer who died in police custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station on June 7, 2025, just one hour after being booked.

    In a statement released by his secretariat, Odinga expressed deep horror over reports that Ojwang was arrested from his home in Homa Bay on Friday, June 6, transported 400 kilometers to Nairobi, and held in police cells over an alleged offensive social media post about a senior police officer.

    According to police records, Ojwang was booked at Central Police Station at 2:35 a.m. as the 59th suspect under charges of false publication.

    Odinga highlighted the troubling lack of clarity surrounding the orders for Ojwang’s arrest and transfer across the country.

    “So far, nobody knows who gave the orders for Mr. Ojwang to be arrested and ferried all the way to Nairobi and yet that person should be answering to Kenyans,” he stated in his strongly-worded statement.

    The former Prime Minister described Ojwang’s death as part of a disturbing pattern of young, defenseless Kenyans losing their lives to police brutality.

    He warned that such incidents erode the authority and credibility of the police and the state, pushing the nation toward chaos and collapse.

    “When citizens can no longer tell the difference between the two forms of injustice—police injustice and mob injustice—we are staring at the reality failure as a nation,” Odinga remarked, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

    As Odinga issued his statement, a postmortem examination of Ojwang’s body was underway at the Nairobi Funeral Home (City Mortuary) on Tuesday, June 10.

    The autopsy, initially scheduled for Monday, was delayed after government pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor stepped aside citing a conflict of interest due to his blood relation to the deceased, though he later confirmed he remains part of the examination team.

    The delay was also caused by an incident on Monday when activists and family members stormed the mortuary’s body-holding area, allegedly “disturbing” Ojwang’s body as pathologists and police prepared for the autopsy.

    Additional security personnel were deployed to the mortuary ahead of Tuesday’s examination to ensure the procedure could proceed smoothly.

    Family lawyer Julius Juma emphasized the need for transparency, stating: “We want transparency. There must be no foul play.”

    The autopsy is being conducted with independent pathologists and civil rights organizations present to ensure impartiality.

    The death has prompted swift action from Kenya’s police leadership. Inspector General Douglas Kanja has ordered the interdiction of several officers at Nairobi’s Central Police Station following Ojwang’s death.

    The move comes amid mounting pressure from politicians, human rights organizations, and the public for accountability.

    According to police reports, Ojwang was found unconscious in his cell after being transferred from the DCI headquarters along Kiambu Road where he had been interrogated. Police claim he sustained fatal injuries, though the exact circumstances remain under investigation.

    Amnesty International Kenya has called the death “tragic” and emphasized that “no Kenyan should lose their life in police custody.”

    The organization stressed that police officers have both legal and moral duties to ensure the safety and well-being of those in their custody.

    Political Pressure Mounts

    Opposition lawmakers, led by Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo, have dismissed police claims about the circumstances of Ojwang’s death.

    They are demanding the immediate arrest of officers involved in the case and calling for a thorough investigation.

    Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has made explosive claims, alleging that “the person behind Albert Ojwang’s death is the same individual who ordered his arrest and transfer to Nairobi.”

    In a post on his X account, Kaluma called for the arrest and prosecution of the unnamed individual to ensure justice for Ojwang and his family.

    Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has also joined calls for a swift and comprehensive probe into the incident, which has shocked residents of the lakeside county where Ojwang was well-known as both an educator and social media personality.

    Pattern of Police Brutality

    Odinga’s statement comes against the backdrop of growing concern over custodial deaths in Kenya.

    The veteran politician called for urgent action, demanding “a speedy and credible investigation into Ojwang’s death, alongside other unresolved cases of police injustice since 2023.”

    He emphasized that the National Police Service must demonstrate genuine commitment to holding its members accountable, starting with this latest incident that has captured national attention.

    The Victim

    Albert Ojwang.

    Albert Ojwang was described as a dedicated teacher from Voi and an active social media influencer who had built a following through his posts on various platforms.

    His family spokesperson revealed that police had promised his father that he would be safe following his arrest—a promise that was tragically broken just days later.

    The 31-year-old’s death has resonated particularly strongly in his home region of Homa Bay and among Kenya’s online community, where many young people have expressed fears about the safety of expressing opinions on social media.

    Raila’s Tough Demands to Ruto Administration

    Odinga’s statement from Bangkok carries particular weight as it directly challenges President William Ruto’s administration to take decisive action.

    The veteran politician’s demands come at a time when the government faces mounting criticism over police conduct and human rights violations.

    In his official statement, Odinga warned that such incidents push the nation toward chaos and collapse, stating: “When citizens can no longer tell the difference between the two forms of injustice—police injustice and mob injustice—we are staring at the reality failure as a nation.”

    The opposition leader’s intervention from Bangkok, where he is currently based following his unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission chairpersonship, signals his continued involvement in Kenyan politics and his role as a key critic of the current administration’s handling of security matters.

    IPOA Investigation and Transparency Measures

    Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Chairperson Ahmed Hassan has pledged to carry out a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter, responding to intensified calls from Ojwang’s family and human rights organizations for accountability.

    The involvement of multiple oversight bodies and the presence of independent pathologists during the autopsy reflects the high-stakes nature of the case and the demand for transparency from various stakeholders.

    The case has highlighted questions about the extent to which Kenyan authorities should go in pursuing social media-related offenses, particularly when they involve transporting suspects across vast distances from their home regions to the capital for what amounts to alleged online commentary.

    As investigations continue, the death of Albert Ojwang has become a rallying point for those calling for comprehensive police reforms and greater accountability in Kenya’s criminal justice system.

    The outcome of the investigations and any subsequent prosecutions will be closely watched as a test of the government’s commitment to addressing police brutality and protecting citizens’ rights.

    The family awaits justice while the nation grapples with yet another custodial death that has exposed deep-seated problems within Kenya’s law enforcement agencies.

  • Security Beefed Up at City Mortuary Ahead of Albert Ojwang’s Autopsy Following Activist Disruption

    Security Beefed Up at City Mortuary Ahead of Albert Ojwang’s Autopsy Following Activist Disruption

    NAIROBI, Kenya – Security has been significantly reinforced at the City Mortuary in Nairobi following an incident where activists and family members stormed the facility and “disturbed” the body of Albert Ojwang, the teacher who died in police custody on Saturday.

    The heightened security measures come as authorities prepare to conduct a crucial autopsy on Tuesday, after the initial examination scheduled for Monday was postponed due to what officials described as “logistical issues” stemming from the disruption.

    The incident occurred on Monday as government pathologists and police had planned to conduct the post-mortem examination. According to sources at the mortuary, a group of activists accompanied by Ojwang’s family members gained access to the body holding area, forcing authorities to postpone the procedure.

    “The exercise was pushed to Tuesday,” confirmed Government Chief Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor, who revealed he has a personal connection to the case. “I am still part of the team. I have not resigned from the exercise. The guy was my relative.”

    The family’s lawyer, Julius Juma, emphasized the need for transparency in the proceedings. “We want transparency. There must be no foul play,” Juma stated, expressing concerns about the condition of the body, which he said showed visible signs of physical trauma including extensive injuries to the head, hands, and shoulder area.

    The Case That Sparked National Outrage

    Albert Omondi Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher based in Voi, had traveled to his home in Homa Bay County for the weekend when he was arrested on Friday over allegations of false publication. The charges were related to social media posts about Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, who had filed the complaint.

    Ojwang was transported approximately 400 kilometers from Homa Bay to Nairobi for questioning at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters along Kiambu Road, before being transferred to Central Police Station for detention. According to the station’s Occurrence Book, he was the 59th suspect admitted, booked at 2:35 a.m. under charges of false publication.

    Police claim Ojwang died by suicide on Saturday morning, allegedly sustaining fatal head injuries after hitting his head against the cell wall while alone in his cell. However, this account has been disputed by family members, civil rights organizations, and legal experts who point to evidence of possible foul play.

    The case has prompted immediate action from Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who ordered the interdiction of several officers to ensure an impartial investigation.

    Those suspended include the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Central Police Station, the duty officer on shift that night, the cell sentry on duty, all officers working at the Report Office that night, and any other personnel involved in the incident.

    “This is standard protocol to ensure impartial investigations. IPOA is leading the process. If anyone is found culpable, they will face the law,” Kanja stated.

    Some of the interdicted officers have claimed they were off duty when the incident occurred.

    Independent Investigation Underway

    The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the death. IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan confirmed that the authority has already visited and documented the scene, established contact with the family, and deployed officers to the City Mortuary.

    “Five police officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have been interviewed by IPOA investigators, and their statements recorded,” Hassan said. “The findings will inform the Authority’s further communication to the public on the progress of the investigation and recommendations to the relevant state agencies, particularly the Director of Public Prosecutions, should criminal culpability be established.”

    Legal Questions Raised

    The Law Society of Kenya, led by President Faith Odhiambo, has questioned the legality of Ojwang’s arrest, noting that no court order justified the overnight transfer from Homa Bay to Nairobi. The legal body argues this violated both the Criminal Procedure Code and Police Standing Orders.

    In a related development, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions announced there was insufficient evidence to charge Kelvin Moinde, who was co-accused with Ojwang in the false publication case. “Upon careful perusal of the inquiry file, the Director of Public Prosecutions is satisfied that there is NO sufficient evidence to charge Mr Kelvin Moinde,” the ODPP stated.

    National Concern and Calls for Justice

    The case has drawn widespread condemnation from various quarters, with human rights organizations expressing concern about the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death. The incident has reignited debates about police accountability and the treatment of suspects in custody.

    Family members and activists have demanded swift justice, with many believing Ojwang was tortured and beaten before his death. The timing of the incident, coming ahead of the first anniversary of the June 2024 protests, has raised additional concerns about the targeting of social media critics.

    The delayed autopsy, now scheduled for Tuesday with enhanced security measures, is expected to provide crucial evidence in determining the actual cause of death and whether criminal charges should be filed against any of the officers involved.

    The case continues to develop as authorities work to balance the demands for transparency with the need to maintain order during the sensitive investigation process.

  • Death of Albert Ojwang’ in Police Custody Reignites Debate Over Safaricom’s Role in State Surveillance

    Death of Albert Ojwang’ in Police Custody Reignites Debate Over Safaricom’s Role in State Surveillance

    A viral social media post has renewed accusations that Kenya’s telecommunications giant Safaricom aids state surveillance, as the nation grapples with the controversial custodial death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher whose post-mortem has exposed what appears to be a police cover-up involving torture and extra-judicial killing.

    The Allegations That Led to Arrest

    Speaking before the Senate on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, Inspector General Douglas Kanja revealed the specific social media posts that triggered Ojwang’s arrest.

    According to Kanja, Ojwang had posted on X alleging that Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat was involved in corruption within the National Police Service.

    “Specifically, the published post alleged that Eliud Lagat had strategically placed his most trusted officer in charge of DCI desks, occurrence books, and traffic shifts to control revenue streams and intelligence flow,” Kanja stated.

    Another post depicted Lagat alongside Joseph Chirchir, a senior officer in the Nairobi area, under the caption “EACC investigating top cop after purchase of Ksh335.9 million home in Dubai,” accompanied by Lagat’s photograph and the phrase “Eliud Lagat Mafia police.”

    The posts were deemed defamatory and unsubstantiated, prompting investigation under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act 2018.

    To verify the claims, investigating officers wrote to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), which confirmed that Lagat was not under investigation, contradicting the social media allegations.

    Digital Trail and CAK Involvement

    Critically, the investigation involved the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK), which provided registration details and preserved posts associated with Ojwang’s X account handle @pixelpioneer.

    The CAK confirmed the social media accounts were linked to the suspects, enabling their identification and subsequent arrest.

    This revelation adds weight to longstanding allegations that telecommunications authorities routinely assist security agencies in tracking social media users, raising questions about digital privacy protections for Kenyan citizens expressing dissent online.

    The Death and Investigation

    Ojwang, a teacher and blogger based in Voi, was arrested on June 7, 2025, at his homestead in Homa Bay by a DCI team that had traveled from Nairobi.

    According to IG Kanja’s Senate testimony, the arrest followed a cybercrime investigation that began after Kevin Moinde, another suspect arrested earlier, disclosed Ojwang’s involvement in the allegedly defamatory posts.

    The official police account states that after his arrest, Ojwang was transferred to Nairobi Central Police Station, arriving at approximately 9:17 PM. At 9:24 PM, he contacted his wife to inform her of his safe arrival.

    He was booked into cells at 9:35 PM after officers confirmed his “normal physical and mental state.”

    However, in the early morning of June 8, officers conducting a routine visit found Ojwang unconscious in his cell.

    He was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital at 1:39 AM but was declared dead on arrival.

    A post-mortem examination conducted on Tuesday revealed a starkly different picture, directly contradicting the police account.

    The autopsy, carried out by a team of pathologists including Dr. Njoroge, Dr. Oduor, Dr. Mutuma, and Dr. Ndegwa, unanimously concluded that the cause of death was blunt force trauma.

    The findings included head injuries with internal bleeding, features of neck pressure suggestive of compression or strangulation, and multiple superficial injuries on the upper and lower lips.

    Lead pathologist Dr. Bernard Midia stated that the injuries were consistent with external assault and showed signs of struggle, making self-inflicted injury unlikely.

    Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo described the injuries as consistent with torture, accusing the perpetrators of extra-judicial execution.

    “This is a crime unknown to law. Someone gave the order to pick him up from Homa Bay. Someone must be held accountable,” said Odhiambo, demanding that IPOA act decisively.

    In a heart-wrenching plea at the post-mortem press conference, Ojwang’s father Meshack directly addressed Deputy Inspector General Lagat: “Eliud Lagat, were you the one who sent your people? What did he do to deserve this? Why was my child crucified?” He called on President William Ruto to intervene, saying, “Help me as a taxpayer. They saw our home was humble and assumed we didn’t matter.”

    Following the death, IG Kanja interdicted several officers including the officer commanding Central Police Station, the officer on duty that night, the cell sentry, and all officers who were on duty at the report office. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation with the post-mortem findings intensifying calls for accountability.

    Renewed Safaricom Allegations

    Beyond the CAK’s confirmed role in the investigation, a separate viral X post has reignited longstanding allegations that Kenya’s largest telecommunications provider shares customer location data with security agencies to facilitate arrests and abductions.

    The controversy erupted following a post on X by user @Son_of_Laikipia on June 9, which appeared to credit Safaricom with helping police locate Ojwang in Homa Bay.

    The post, accompanied by an image purportedly showing a meeting between Safaricom and police officials, has renewed accusations of the telecom giant’s complicity in state surveillance.

    Activists have accused Safaricom of sharing customer call records and location data with alleged state agents, allowing them to track and capture targets.
    These allegations have persisted since mid-2024, when Safaricom faced backlash during widespread Gen Z-led protests, with accusations of facilitating abductions by allegedly handing over user data.

    During a Senate session in November 2024, Senator Okiya Omtatah stated: “Safaricom is accused of aiding state agents in tracking and abducting citizens, yet no response has been given”.

    Investigative reports have detailed how suspects located using mobile phone signals can be abducted without due judicial process.

    Company Response and Legal Framework

    Safaricom has consistently denied sharing customer data without proper legal authorization. The company has previously stated it does not share customer data with security agencies without following proper legal procedures.

    However, investigations have revealed that Kenyan security agencies have had almost unrestricted access to mobile phone users’ call data records and location data through a data management system. Under the Kenya Information and Communications Act, telecommunications companies face financial penalties of up to Sh1 million for privacy violations, while staff risk jail terms of up to five years.

    Public Response and Implications

    The latest controversy has prompted some social media users to call for boycotts of Safaricom services, while others have tagged CEO Peter Ndegwa demanding accountability.

    The debate is complicated by Safaricom’s central role in Kenya’s economy—its M-Pesa mobile money platform handles transactions worth over half of the country’s GDP, making it difficult for many Kenyans to avoid the service entirely.

    Human rights organizations have accused Safaricom of “habitually declining to provide full CDRs despite court orders” and allowing security agencies “routine access to consumer data”.

    The allegations against Safaricom occur against a backdrop of reported increases in enforced disappearances and abductions in Kenya, particularly targeting government critics and activists.

    While President William Ruto’s administration has denied state involvement in such incidents, human rights groups continue to document cases and call for accountability.

    The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between national security imperatives and digital privacy rights in Kenya, where telecommunications data has become a critical tool for law enforcement—and allegedly, for suppressing dissent.

    As the IPOA investigation into Ojwang’s death continues, the incident has intensified calls for stricter regulations governing how telecommunications companies handle customer data and cooperate with security agencies. The case underscores broader questions about the balance between state security and citizen privacy in Kenya’s digital age.

    Key Facts:

    – Albert Ojwang, 31, a teacher and blogger from Voi, died in police custody at Nairobi Central Police Station on June 8, 2025
    – He was arrested on June 7 in Homa Bay over X posts alleging Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat was involved in police corruption
    – Posts claimed Lagat had “strategically placed trusted officers to control revenue streams” and was under EACC investigation (later confirmed false)
    – Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) provided registration details linking Ojwang to the social media accounts
    – Post-mortem revealed blunt force trauma, head injuries, neck compression, and multiple facial injuries, contradicting police claims
    – Pathologists unanimously concluded death was caused by assault, not self-inflicted injury
    – IG Kanja interdicted multiple officers at Central Police Station following the death
    – IPOA has launched investigation; viral social media post has renewed allegations about Safaricom’s role in state surveillance

  • Chief Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor Withdraws from Albert Ojwang Autopsy, Citing Family Ties

    Chief Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor Withdraws from Albert Ojwang Autopsy, Citing Family Ties

    NAIROBI, Kenya – Chief Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor has withdrawn from conducting the autopsy of Albert Ojwang, a Voi-based teacher and social media influencer who died in police custody on Saturday under controversial circumstances.

    Dr. Oduor cited undisclosed family ties to the deceased as the reason for his recusal, raising fresh questions about the impartiality of the investigation into Ojwang’s death.

    The announcement, made Monday, comes amid growing public outcry and skepticism over the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.

    Ojwang, a Kiswahili and Religious Studies teacher, was arrested in Kakot, Homa Bay County, on Friday for allegedly posting a “derogatory” comment about a senior police officer on the social media platform X.

    He was then transported 350 kilometers to Nairobi’s Central Police Station, where he was found unconscious in his cell and pronounced dead on arrival at Mbagathi Hospital.

    Police have claimed that Ojwang died by suicide, alleging he hit his head against the cell wall.

    However, his family was denied access to view the cell where the alleged incident occurred, fueling suspicions of foul play.

    The case has sparked widespread condemnation, with human rights groups, including Amnesty Kenya, calling the circumstances of Ojwang’s arrest and death “highly suspicious.”

    Dr. Oduor, a prominent figure in Kenya’s forensic pathology scene, was initially scheduled to lead the autopsy at 2 p.m.

    Monday as part of an independent investigation promised by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.

    However, in a surprising turn of events, Oduor withdrew from the procedure, citing personal connections to the Ojwang family.

    The nature of these ties remains undisclosed, but the decision has intensified public distrust, with many questioning the transparency of the process.

    Social media posts reflect the public’s growing frustration.

    One user on X stated, “Dr. Johansen Oduor should not be allowed anywhere near the body of the late Albert Ojwang’. This guy will change the narrative & compromise our call for justice.”

    Another user echoed the sentiment, saying, “We don’t trust this government pathologist Johansen Oduor. He should not go anywhere near that body.”

    These reactions highlight a broader lack of confidence in official investigations, with some users referencing past high-profile cases handled by Oduor as reasons for skepticism.

    The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has not yet named a replacement pathologist, but the autopsy is expected to proceed under the supervision of an independent team.

    Several law practitioners have expressed interest in probing the case.

    Officers stationed at Central Police Station during Ojwang’s detention have been interdicted pending further investigation, and Deputy Inspector General Eliud Kipkoech Lagat has been identified as the complainant behind Ojwang’s arrest.

    Dr. Oduor, a former rapper turned pathologist, has been a polarizing figure in Kenya’s public sphere.

    Known for handling high-profile cases such as the autopsies of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were and Jomo Kenyatta University student Rita Waeni, he has often emphasized the importance of credibility by involving independent pathologists in sensitive cases.

    His withdrawal from this case, however, has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the challenges of maintaining impartiality in Kenya’s forensic investigations.

    Ojwang’s family, led by his father, Meshack Opiyo, has demanded answers, questioning why their son was transported to Nairobi rather than being booked at a local police station in Homa Bay.

    Amnesty Kenya’s director, Irungu Houghton, described the long-distance transfer as “quite shocking,” further amplifying calls for an independent inquiry.

    As the nation awaits the autopsy results, the case continues to ignite debates about police accountability and the integrity of Kenya’s judicial processes.

    The DCI has promised a thorough investigation, but with public trust already strained, the handling of Ojwang’s case will likely remain under intense scrutiny.

  • Protesters Chanting ‘Ruto Must Go’ Block City Mortuary as Calls for Justice Mount Over Albert Ojwang’s Death in Police Custody

    Protesters Chanting ‘Ruto Must Go’ Block City Mortuary as Calls for Justice Mount Over Albert Ojwang’s Death in Police Custody

    NAIROBI, Kenya – Dozens of activists took to the streets around City Mortuary on Monday, blocking traffic and demanding justice for social media influencer Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody under controversial circumstances.

    The protesters, many armed with cameras, staged a dramatic standoff at the roundabout near Nairobi Funeral Home (formerly City Mortuary), effectively shutting down a key section of Ngong Road that leads to Mbagathi Hospital.

    Their chants of “Ruto must go” and “We want justice for Ojwang” echoed through the area as tensions escalated throughout the day.

    Albert Ojwang, a Kiswahili and Religious Studies teacher who had gained prominence as a social media influencer, died early Sunday morning while detained at Central Police Station in Nairobi.

    The 32-year-old had been arrested Friday in his home county of Homa Bay, then transported over 400 kilometers to the capital for questioning over alleged defamatory posts targeting Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

    The circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death have drawn fierce criticism and skepticism from the public. Police initially claimed he died from self-inflicted head injuries after hitting his head against his cell wall, but this account has been challenged by new evidence.

    Speaking to media on Monday, Ojwang’s family lawyer revealed disturbing details after viewing the body: “The body had a lot of injuries on the head, the hand and the shoulder area. There was a lot of blood oozing from the nose.”

    The presence of injuries on his hands and shoulders suggests possible defensive wounds, contradicting the official police narrative of suicide.

    Among the prominent figures leading Monday’s demonstration were activist Hanifa Adan, Vocal Africa CEO Hussein Khalid, university student leader Joshua Okayo, and scholar-turned-activist Fred Ogola.

    Their demands went beyond seeking justice for Ojwang to calling for broader systemic change.

    “Kenyans, united, we shall never be defeated. Ruto must go; Lagat must go. What are we demanding? We are demanding justice,” the protesters chanted as they maintained their blockade of the busy intersection.

    Okayo specifically questioned why Ojwang had been transported hundreds of kilometers from his arrest location to Nairobi instead of being processed locally in Homa Bay.

    He also called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the Central Police Station Officer Commanding Station (OCS), whom he identified as the main suspect in the influencer’s death.

    Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja held a press conference Monday at Central Police Station, where he confirmed that Deputy IG Lagat had indeed filed a formal complaint against Ojwang for alleged defamation, leading to his arrest by DCI detectives.

    “During a routine cell inspection Ojwang was found unconscious and immediately rushed to the Mbagathi hospital for treatment, upon arrival he was declared dead,” Kanja stated, revising the earlier account of self-inflicted injuries.

    In response to the mounting pressure, several officers on duty at Central Police Station during the night of Ojwang’s death have been interdicted pending investigation.

    The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched a full investigation into the incident.

    IPOA Chairperson Isaac Hassan assured the public that justice would be served: “From last night when we got informed about the death of the young man Albert Ojwang, we have already commenced investigations. Our team visited the scene where the death occurred.”

    The case has attracted attention from high-ranking political figures, with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua calling for the dismissal of Deputy IG Lagat.

    Human rights organization Amnesty Kenya also issued a statement expressing deep concern over the death, emphasizing that “no Kenyan should lose their life in police custody.”

    As protesters maintained their vigil outside, Ojwang’s postmortem examination proceeded inside the mortuary, attended by family members and their legal representatives.

    The autopsy results are expected to provide crucial evidence in determining the exact cause of death and whether the injuries were indeed self-inflicted as police claim.

    The protest continued into the afternoon, with anti-riot police and regular police units deployed to the area as tensions remained high.

    Traffic diversions were implemented around the Ngong Road corridor as authorities worked to manage the situation.

    Ojwang’s arrest stemmed from social media posts that Deputy IG Lagat deemed defamatory.

    The influencer was initially detained in Homa Bay on Friday, June 6, before being transported to Nairobi for questioning at DCI headquarters on Saturday.

    He was subsequently held at Central Police Station, where he was found unconscious during what police described as a routine cell check early Sunday morning.

    The case has reignited debates about police accountability and the treatment of detainees in Kenya, with many questioning why a social media post warranted such drastic action and why the suspect died within hours of being in police custody.

    As investigations continue and public pressure mounts, the death of Albert Ojwang has become a flashpoint for broader concerns about police conduct and accountability in Kenya, with activists vowing to maintain pressure until those responsible are held accountable.

  • Police IG Kanja Confirms DIG Eliud Lagat Was The Complainant Against Albert Ojwang Who Died in Police Custody

    Police IG Kanja Confirms DIG Eliud Lagat Was The Complainant Against Albert Ojwang Who Died in Police Custody

    Inspector General reveals defamation complaint by deputy led to controversial arrest that ended tragically at Central Police Station

    Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has made a startling revelation about the circumstances leading to the arrest of Albert Ojwang, the social media influencer and teacher who died mysteriously in police custody over the weekend.

    Speaking to the press on Monday, June 9, 2025, IG Kanja disclosed that the controversial arrest was initiated following a formal complaint from Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police Service (DIG) Eliud Kipkoech Lagat, who alleged that Ojwang’s social media posts were damaging his reputation.

    “The reasons why the late Ojwang was arrested together with others is because there was a complaint that had been lodged by the DIG KPS about his name being tarnished,” Kanja stated during the press briefing.

    “It is on that basis investigations were being carried out because he has got a right.”

    The Fatal Chain of Events

    Albert Ojwang, a teacher based in Voi and resident of Kakot village in Homa Bay County, was arrested on Saturday afternoon, June 7, 2025, at his home.

    The 30-something educator was then transferred approximately 400 kilometers from Homa Bay to Nairobi’s Central Police Station, where he died under disputed circumstances on Sunday, June 8.

    According to police reports, Ojwang was found unconscious in his cell with head injuries, allegedly “by hitting his head severally against the wall inside the cell.”

    He was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

    The official police report suggests suicide, claiming an officer discovered Ojwang “with blood oozing from his head” during a routine cell visit.

    However, this narrative has been met with widespread skepticism from family members, human rights organizations, and political leaders who suspect foul play.

    Final Moments Raise Questions

    In what has become a haunting detail, audio recordings have surfaced of Ojwang’s final phone conversation with a close friend while in custody.

    In the recording, which has gone viral on social media, Ojwang reportedly expressed fears about his safety and seemed to have a premonition about his fate.

    The circumstances surrounding his transfer from Homa Bay to Nairobi have particularly drawn criticism.

    Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called for DIG Lagat’s suspension, alleging that the deputy police chief operates Central Police Station and Kamukunji Police Station without IG Kanja’s knowledge, describing them as “the new torture chambers.”

    Institutional Response and Investigations

    Following mounting public pressure and outcry, IG Kanja has taken swift action by interdicting five officers who were on duty at Central Police Station during Ojwang’s detention.

    The interdicted officers include the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) and all personnel who were present on the night of the incident.

    “I will be giving updates,” Kanja promised, addressing public concerns and committing to provide regular briefings on the case.

    The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), under Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan, has launched a comprehensive investigation into the death.

    Hassan has issued stern warnings to officers appointed to replace those interdicted, urging full cooperation with the probe.

    “We also want to warn those who will be appointed to act in their places to cooperate with the investigators and not to interfere with the investigation,” Hassan declared, emphasizing that any interference could derail the pursuit of justice.

    IPOA’s inquiry, which is mandated to scrutinize deaths caused by police actions, is focused on collecting forensic evidence and witness testimonies to establish the truth behind Ojwang’s death.

    Emotional Toll on Family

    The case has taken a heavy emotional toll on Ojwang’s family, particularly his father, Meshack Opiyo, whose tearful television appearance has moved many Kenyans.

    IPOA Chairperson Hassan acknowledged the family’s pain, stating: “I watched mzee Ojwang on TV crying. Any parent would feel the same pain when you have lost your son. I want to assure him and the public that IPOA will do everything possible to ensure that justice is served for the family.”

    The case has reignited debates about police brutality and accountability in Kenya.

    Human rights organization Amnesty International Kenya has condemned the death, stating that “no Kenyan should lose their life in police custody, and those entrusted with their protection” have failed in their duty.

    Political leaders across the spectrum have expressed outrage.

    Mumias East MP Peter Salasya warned that Kenya is “on a VERY dangerous path,” while others have called for resignations of senior officials.

    The revelation that a senior police officer’s complaint about social media criticism led to an arrest that ended in death has raised serious questions about the use of police power to settle personal grievances and the protection of freedom of expression in Kenya.

    Calls for Justice and Reform

    As investigations continue, there are growing calls for comprehensive police reforms and accountability mechanisms.

    The case has highlighted concerns about the treatment of suspects in police custody and the need for stronger oversight of law enforcement agencies.

    The tragic death of Albert Ojwang has become a symbol of the ongoing struggle for police accountability in Kenya, with many demanding that justice be served not just for his family, but as a step toward ensuring such incidents never occur again.

    IG Kanja’s promise of regular updates will be closely watched by a public demanding transparency and accountability in what has become one of the most controversial police custody deaths in recent memory.

  • Picked Up While Taking Lunch and Ended in a Morgue: The Brutal End of Albert Ojwang 400KM Away from Home in Police Custody

    Picked Up While Taking Lunch and Ended in a Morgue: The Brutal End of Albert Ojwang 400KM Away from Home in Police Custody

    The quiet Saturday afternoon of June 8, 2025, in Kasipul Kabondo, Homa Bay County, began like any other for the Ojwang family.

    They had just said grace and were settling down for lunch when three motorbikes roared into their compound, carrying six men who would shatter their world forever.

    Within hours, their only child, Albert Ojwang, would be dead in a police cell 400 kilometers away in Nairobi.

    A Teacher’s Last Normal Day

    Albert Ojwang, 31, was not just any visitor to his family home that weekend.

    The Kiswahili and Religious Studies teacher, who worked in Voi, had come home to run errands.

    An alumnus of Pwani University, he was a devoted family man with a wife and a five-month-old baby.

    His future seemed promising, his life ordinary in the best possible way.

    The arrest was swift and unexplained. The men—later identified as police officers—walked into the compound without ceremony, handcuffed Albert without providing reasons, and whisked him away on their motorbikes.

    His father, Meshack Ojwang Opiyo, would later learn that his son had allegedly “insulted a senior person on X (formerly Twitter).”

    The 400-Kilometer Journey to Death

    What followed was a journey that would end in tragedy.

    Albert was first taken to Mawego Police Station before being transferred to Nairobi’s Central Police Station. His father, instructed to follow, boarded a public service vehicle and made the long journey to the capital, not knowing he was traveling to identify his son’s body.

    The timeline is chilling in its brevity.

    Albert sent his final WhatsApp message at 1:57 PM on Saturday, asking a friend for 500 shillings for fuel: “Mzee, nipatie 500 niweke fuel.”

    By 2:00 PM, he was handcuffed and his phone confiscated. Less than 24 hours later, he was dead.

    A Father’s Devastating Discovery

    When Meshack Opiyo arrived at the Central Police Station on Sunday morning, he expected to see his son.

    Instead, he was informed that Albert had died and his body had been taken to Nairobi Funeral Home.

    The sight that greeted him there would haunt any parent: his son’s head was deformed, blood was oozing from his nose, his torso and face were bruised, and he was shirtless—not the condition in which he had been handed over to police.

    “He was bleeding from the nose and had a bruised torso and face. He was also shirtless but this is not how I handed him over to the police on Saturday. My son died like an animal,” the grief-stricken father said tearfully.

    Conflicting Official Accounts

    The police version of events has been riddled with inconsistencies from the start.

    Initially, officers claimed Albert had hit his head against the walls of the police station cells and died while being taken to Mbagathi Hospital for treatment. Later reports filed at the station claimed he had died by suicide, with an officer allegedly finding him “with blood oozing from his head” during a routine cell visit.

    According to National Police Service Spokesperson Michael Muchiri: “NPS confirms that Albert Omondi Ojwang was lawfully arrested by DCI detectives for false publication. While in custody, the suspect sustained head injuries after hitting his head against the cell wall.”

    However, the family’s observations tell a different story. Albert’s body showed scratches consistent with being dragged, and the extent of his injuries appeared far beyond what could be self-inflicted by hitting a wall.

    The Digital Trail That Led to Death

    Albert’s arrest was reportedly linked to a controversial social media post that allegedly defamed a senior police officer.

    However, his friends maintain that Albert did not make the post—he only had access to the account. They claim the post had already been taken down by the time he was arrested, and the actual account owner remains in custody.

    This raises troubling questions about the thoroughness of the investigation that led to Albert’s arrest and whether he died for something he didn’t even do.

    A Terrified Voice from Custody

    Perhaps the most heartbreaking detail emerged from Albert’s final phone call to a friend while in custody.

    Having never been arrested before, he was terrified and asked his friend how the system works when you’re in custody.

    The friend reassured him: “If you’re in Central, you’ll be fine. We’ll come for you in the morning.”

    It was a promise that would never be kept. Albert’s premonition of danger proved tragically accurate.

    Systematic Cover-Up Attempts

    The family’s attempts to understand what happened to Albert have been met with obstruction at every turn. When they asked to see the cell where Albert allegedly died, they were denied access.

    Family lawyer Julius Juma reported that by evening, they still had not been allowed in, with officers claiming they didn’t have the authority to speak to them.

    “There are a lot of inconsistencies in the police’s version of events. The police can’t even explain themselves consistently,” Juma said.

    Swift Official Response Amid Public Outrage

    The case has generated significant public outcry, forcing swift action from the highest levels of law enforcement.

    Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja has interdicted the Officer Commanding the Station (OCS) at Nairobi’s Central Police Station and all officers who were on duty the night Albert died.

    “To ensure a thorough, impartial, and expeditious investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the Inspector-General of the National Police has ordered the interdiction of the officers with immediate effect,” spokesperson Michael Muchiri said.

    The Law Society of Kenya has also weighed in, with President Faith Odhiambo stating: “The stories that are being shared—we feel that they are lies and an attempt to cover up what really happened.”

    A Pattern of Deaths in Custody

    Albert’s death is not an isolated incident but part of a disturbing pattern of deaths in police custody across Kenya.

    Recent similar cases have raised serious questions about police accountability and the treatment of detainees.

    The circumstances of Albert’s death—from the lack of transparency to the conflicting official accounts—mirror other controversial cases that have eroded public trust in law enforcement.

    Amnesty Kenya has condemned the death, stating that “No Kenyan should lose their life in police custody, and those entrusted with their protection” have “a legal and moral duty to ensure the safety and well-being” of detainees.

    The Human Cost of Alleged Social Media Crimes

    Albert Ojwang was more than the circumstances of his death.

    Friends remember him as a gentle Manchester United fan who was passionate about teaching.

    He was a young father trying to make ends meet—his final message was a request for fuel money from a friend.

    He was an ordinary Kenyan whose life was cut short in extraordinary and brutal circumstances.

    His story raises fundamental questions about proportionality in law enforcement.

    Even if he had made the alleged social media post, would it justify the use of force that led to his death? The answer from any civilized society should be a resounding no.

    The Long Road to Justice

    As investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority continue, Albert’s family and the Kenyan public await answers.

    The interdiction of the officers involved is a start, but it cannot bring back a young teacher whose only crime may have been having access to a social media account.

    The case has become a symbol of broader issues plaguing Kenya’s law enforcement: lack of accountability, excessive use of force, and a culture of impunity that allows officers to act with apparent disregard for human life.

    Albert Ojwang left home on a Saturday afternoon to run errands and ended up in a morgue 400 kilometers away by Sunday morning.

    His father’s anguished words—“My son died like an animal”—should haunt every Kenyan until justice is served and systematic reforms ensure that no other family suffers such a devastating loss.

    The investigation continues, but for Meshack Opiyo and his family, no amount of justice can fill the void left by their only child, whose promising life was brutally cut short in the darkness of a police cell far from home.

    This story continues to develop as investigations proceed. The family has called for justice and transparency in determining the exact circumstances that led to Albert Ojwang’s death in police custody.

  • Central Police Bosses Interdicted Over Albert Ojwang Death in Custody

    Central Police Bosses Interdicted Over Albert Ojwang Death in Custody

    Nairobi, June 9, 2025 – The National Police Service (NPS) has ordered the immediate interdiction of multiple senior officers attached to Nairobi’s Central Police Station following the controversial death of 26-year-old Albert Omondi Ojwang while in police custody over the weekend.

    Among those suspended are the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), the duty officer who was on shift during the night of the incident, the cell sentry, and all officers stationed at the report office that evening, as well as any other personnel found to have been involved in the case.

    Ojwang, a teacher and social media influencer from Kakot village in Homa Bay County, was arrested on Saturday afternoon, June 7, 2025, at his family home by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

    According to family members, the officers informed them that the 26-year-old was being detained over an alleged offensive post he had made on the social media platform X, described by police as insulting a senior officer.

    Initially held at Mawego Police Station, Ojwang was transferred overnight to Nairobi and detained at Central Police Station.

    His family traveled to the capital on Sunday to check on his welfare, only to be informed upon arrival that he had died while in custody.

    According to a police report, an officer conducting routine checks discovered Ojwang bleeding from the head.

    Albert Omondi Ojwang.
    Albert Omondi Ojwang.

    The report claims that preliminary investigations showed the detainee, who had been booked for false publication, died after “hitting his head severally against the wall inside the cell.”

    Police stated that officers immediately rushed Ojwang to Mbagathi Hospital for treatment, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

    The NPS maintains that the death resulted from self-inflicted injuries.

    However, this official account has faced widespread skepticism from political leaders, civil society organizations, and the public.

    The family’s lawyer expressed disbelief at the circumstances, stating that proper legal procedures should have been followed rather than the situation escalating to a fatality.

    The case has attracted significant attention from prominent political figures. KANU chairman and former Baringo Senator Gideon Moi described the incident as “troubling and suspicious,” arguing that the police explanation raises more questions than answers.

    Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has also criticized the police narrative, questioning the credibility of the self-inflicted injury claim.

    Former Chief Justice David Maraga condemned what he termed “constant wave of state-sponsored violence,” while Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga described the incident as “deeply troubling” and called for swift justice and transparency, pledging county support to the grieving family.

    Amnesty International Kenya has issued a strong statement condemning the death, emphasizing that no Kenyan should lose their life in police custody and that officers have a legal and moral duty to ensure the safety and well-being of detainees.

    The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death, in line with statutory requirements for custodial deaths.

    The NPS has pledged full cooperation with the investigation.

    NPS spokesperson confirmed that the interdiction decision was made to allow for a thorough, impartial, and expeditious investigation.

    “The NPS remains committed to upholding the rule of law, human rights, transparency and accountability within the Service,” the police statement read, assuring the public that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.

    The death has sparked national outrage, with activists and youth-led movements planning demonstrations under the trending hashtag #JusticeForAlbertOjwang. The case has reignited concerns about custodial deaths in Kenya and police accountability.

    The incident occurs against a backdrop of ongoing debates about police conduct and the treatment of citizens in custody, particularly those detained over social media posts.

    Human rights organizations have repeatedly called for reforms in police detention procedures and greater oversight of custodial conditions.

    Ojwang’s father, Meshack Opiyo, said that police at Central Police Station told him his son had died from self-inflicted injuries.

    The family has been directed to City Mortuary, where the body was taken, but they continue to demand answers about the circumstances that led to their son’s death.

    The family’s lawyer emphasized that due process should have been followed, with the young man being charged and processed through the courts if found guilty, rather than losing his life while in custody.

    As investigations continue, the case has become a focal point for broader discussions about police reform, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights, particularly in cases involving social media expression and freedom of speech.