Eliud Lagat: DIG Steps Aside as Probe Into Albert Ojwang's Death Deepens

• Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat has stepped aside to allow independent investigations into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody
• In the press statement, Lagat, accused of ordering Ojwang's arrest, conveyed his deepest condolence to the blogger's family
• Ojwang’s death has sparked nationwide protests, with the youth and civil rights groups demanding justice and accountability for rising cases of extrajudicial killings

Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has voluntarily stepped aside from his position to allow for an impartial investigation into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died at the Central Police Station.

Why did Eliud Lagat step aside?

In a press statement issued on Monday, June 16, Lagat said his decision was guided by the need to uphold integrity and transparency as the probe continues.

“In the good and conscious thought of my role and responsibilities as the Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police Service, and in view of the ongoing investigations on the unfortunate incident of the death of Albert Ojwang, I have today opted to step aside pending completion of investigations,” Lagat stated.

He further expressed his willingness to support the investigation and extended his condolences to Ojwang’s family.

"I offer immense condolences to the family of Albert Ojwang for their great loss," he added.

Ojwang’s death has sparked national outrage, particularly among the youth who have staged a series of protests demanding justice.

Why was Albert Ojwang arrested?

Ojwang was arrested after he allegedly posted a tweet accusing Lagat of corruption and abuse of office.

His death has since fueled accusations of extrajudicial killings and abuse of power by security agencies.

The incident has drawn sharp criticism from the public and leaders across the political divide, with many questioning the conduct of the police and the government's commitment to protecting human rights.

The Inspector General’s office will now be temporarily overseen by Lagat’s deputy until the investigations are concluded.

What you need to know about Albert Ojwang's death?

• Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam looked deeply troubled during his arraignment
• George Natembeya hinted at what could have led to Ojwang's death in the cell
• Lawyers Willis Otieno and Okiya Omtatah have demanded the arrest of DCI Amin Mohamed over Ojwang's false health records

Did Talaam communicate with Ojwang's suspected killers?

On Monday, June 16, Central Police OCS Samson Talaam was presented at the Milimani Law Courts.

Investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) revealed that Talaam was in constant communication with officers at the station before, during, and after the crime.

He was also linked to an individual who allegedly tampered with crucial CCTV footage on the day Ojwang was tortured to death.

Detective Mugoh wants private spies to probe cases involving police

Meanwhile, as calls for a thorough investigation intensified, private detective Jane Mugoh urged the government to protect and empower private investigators to independently probe cases involving the police.

She argued that the police cannot be trusted to investigate themselves.

While acknowledging that some officers are committed to their duties, Mugoh highlighted instances where senior police officers have harassed ordinary citizens, with many of these cases remaining unresolved.

Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.

Source: TUKO.co.ke