Embattled Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat is set to appear before the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) on Thursday as part of investigations into the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody.
The high-profile case has drawn national outrage and renewed calls for transparency and accountability within Kenya’s police service.
IPOA Chairperson Isack Hassan confirmed Lagat’s summons, adding that over 20 officers — including the Deputy Officer Commanding Station (OCS) of Central Police Station, Nairobi — have already recorded their statements. Investigators have also requested mobile phone records from Safaricom to aid the probe.
Lagat voluntarily stepped aside from his role earlier this week, stating his decision was meant to uphold the integrity of his office and allow for an impartial investigation. He expressed condolences to Ojwang’s family and pledged full cooperation.
Ojwang, known for his fearless blogging on police misconduct and corruption, was arrested shortly after publishing explosive allegations linking Lagat to bribery and questionable officer deployments within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and traffic department — postings allegedly exploited for financial and intelligence gain.
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Following his arrest, Ojwang died under unclear circumstances at Central Police Station, triggering protests and condemnation from civil society and the public. Former Chief Justice David Maraga has since called for Lagat’s immediate arrest, citing compelling evidence of his involvement in Ojwang’s torture and death.
Inspector General Douglas Kanja, appearing before the Senate, confirmed internal investigations had begun following social media claims of Lagat's corruption and alleged ownership of a luxury property in Dubai.
Already, OCS Samson Talaam, Constable James Mukhwana, and three civilian suspects have been arrested, with IPOA suspecting the civilians were used by officers to assault Ojwang, resulting in his death.
