Published: June 20, 2025 | By: The Star
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IPOA Denies Interrogation by Chair or CEO
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has dismissed reports that Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat was grilled by Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan or the Authority’s CEO.
In a statement dated Friday, June 20, IPOA clarified that Lagat was received and questioned strictly by its technical investigation team in connection with the death of Albert Ojwang.
“Contrary to the allegation carried on page 4 of today’s Standard newspaper, Mr Eliud Lagat was not interrogated by the IPOA Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer. He was received by the technical investigation team handling the matter,” IPOA noted.
Upholding Investigative Integrity
The oversight authority reiterated its commitment to investigative independence, emphasizing the separation between policy-making roles and operational functions.
“This is consistent with the principle of safeguarding investigative integrity and maintaining a clear separation between policy formulation and operational functions within the Authority,” read the statement.
Allegations on Use of Talaam’s Phone
IPOA also addressed reports alleging the misuse of the phone belonging to interdicted Nairobi Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam. It had been alleged that the phone was used to send messages after it was surrendered.
The authority confirmed that the phone was “procedurally seized” by its forensic experts and is being securely held as evidence. IPOA further disclosed that it had referred the allegations to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
“The DCI will file a report in court by July 1, 2025,” IPOA added.
Ongoing Investigations into Ojwang’s Death
DIG Lagat is considered a key person of interest in the case, as he is listed as the complainant who initiated action against Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody.
A fellow officer, James Mukhwana, had earlier accused Lagat of instructing officers to “discipline” Ojwang — an allegation IPOA said is still under investigation.
Although Lagat has since stepped down to allow investigations, IPOA has yet to make public the DIG’s responses to the allegations.
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