In a shocking turn of events, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Kipkoech Lagat has stepped aside from his role in the Kenya Police Service as investigations into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang’ gather momentum. Ojwang’s controversial death while in police custody has sparked national outrage and calls for accountability from the highest ranks of law enforcement.
In a statement issued on Monday, Lagat announced his decision to relinquish his duties, citing the gravity of his office and the public’s demand for justice.
A Voluntary Step Aside
“I have today chosen to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General – Kenya Police Service to allow for impartial investigations into this matter,” Lagat stated. “Until these investigations are completed, my deputy will take over the functions of this office.”
Lagat assured the public of his full cooperation with investigators and expressed his condolences to Ojwang’s grieving family, labeling the incident as “unfortunate.”
The Allegations Against Lagat
Ojwang’s death has brought to light serious allegations of corruption and abuse of power within the police force. The late blogger was detained after publishing explosive claims linking Lagat to graft in the strategic deployment of officers to lucrative positions in the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and traffic departments. These positions, Ojwang’ alleged, were linked to revenue generation and intelligence manipulation.
Adding fuel to the fire, Inspector General Douglas Kanja confirmed before the Senate that Lagat is under scrutiny for alleged financial misconduct, including the acquisition of a $2.6 million property in Dubai. The accusations have painted a grim picture of systemic corruption within the police force, with viral posts branding Lagat as a “mafia police” figure.
Public Outcry and Legal Demands
The case has ignited widespread protests across the country, with demonstrators demanding justice for Ojwang’ and reforms within the security sector. Former Chief Justice David Maraga intensified the pressure on Monday, urging authorities to arrest Lagat and prosecute him based on preliminary evidence.
“There is prima facie evidence that Mr. Eliud Lagat is directly or indirectly implicated in the unlawful arrest, torture, and murder of Albert Ojwang’,” Maraga stated. “Justice must be served, and Mr. Lagat should face the full force of the law.”
The Investigation So Far
The probe into Ojwang’s death has already led to multiple arrests, including Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam and Police Constable James Mukhwana. Additionally, three civilian detainees—Gin Ammitou Abwao, Collins Karani Ireri, and Brian Mwaniki Njue—have been taken into custody for their alleged roles in torturing Ojwang’ under police direction.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is spearheading the investigation, which has brought renewed attention to extrajudicial practices and systemic impunity within Kenya’s security forces.
A Spotlight on Police Reform
Ojwang’s death has reignited the debate on police accountability and the urgent need for reforms within Kenya’s law enforcement agencies. Public trust in the police has reached a new low, with activists and leaders calling for swift action to ensure such incidents do not recur.
As investigations continue, the nation awaits a definitive conclusion to this tragic case and hopes for justice to be served for Albert Ojwang’.
