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IG Orders Immediate Interdiction of Officers
In a statement released on Monday, June 9, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja announced that key officers on duty the night Ojwang died had been interdicted to pave way for an independent and impartial investigation.
“To ensure a thorough, impartial, and expeditious investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), I have ordered the interdiction of officers who were on duty at the time,” said IG Kanja.
The officers suspended include the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), the Duty Officer, Cell Sentry, and all personnel who were present at the Report Office on the night of June 7, 2025.
Timeline of Events Leading to Ojwang’s Death
Albert Ojwang was reportedly arrested in Kakot, Homa Bay County by officers believed to be from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). He was allegedly taken in for publishing content deemed offensive on the platform X (formerly Twitter), which reportedly targeted a senior police officer.
Read more:Police Respond After Death of Albert Ojwang in Custody
After a brief detention at Mawego Police Station, he was transported to Nairobi and held at Central Police Station. Police claim that Ojwang sustained fatal head injuries after allegedly hitting his head against a wall in the holding cell. He was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital where he was declared dead on arrival.
Public Outcry and Leadership Response
The circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death have sparked nationwide outrage, with civil rights groups and political leaders demanding accountability. Speaking to the press, KANU leader Gideon Moi called for a transparent investigation.
“The explanation that Ojwang hit his head multiple times while in custody is deeply troubling and raises more questions than answers,” said Moi.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also weighed in, urging IPOA to fast-track its probe into the incident.
“Police brutality has no place in our society. The death of Albert Ojwang under these circumstances must be investigated thoroughly,” she said.
Family and Civil Society Demand Justice
Ojwang’s father, Meshack Opiyo, has called for justice, stating his son was arrested during lunch and not booked at the local police station as required. VOCAL Africa, a civil society group, also released a statement expressing concern over what they termed a likely case of extrajudicial killing.
For related coverage, read: Details of Ojwang’s Arrest and Last Moments
Ongoing Investigations
The IPOA has since confirmed that investigations are ongoing. NPS has pledged to cooperate fully and provide any necessary information as requested by oversight agencies.
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