The net is closing in on top-ranking police officials as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) intensifies investigations into the controversial death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’, who died while in police custody.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has now been summoned to appear before IPOA’s investigative team to record a statement a move that signals the probe is entering a decisive phase.
According to IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan, the Authority has already obtained crucial evidence, including mobile phone records from key individuals, CCTV footage from Central Police Station, and biological samples now under analysis at the Government Chemist.
“With sufficient grounds established, the Authority has summoned Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat to assist in the ongoing investigations,” Hassan confirmed in a statement released Wednesday.
The case, which has stirred public outrage, is being handled in coordination with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). IPOA says it expects to wrap up the investigation and hand over a comprehensive case file including recommendations for prosecution early next week.
So far, twenty police officers, including Central Police Station Deputy OCS IP Samuel Ng’ang’a, have recorded statements. Two officers OCS Samson Talaam and PC James Mukhwana have already been charged in court.
Civilians are not off the hook either. Among those charged is Kelvin Mutisya Mutava, who is accused of tampering with CCTV evidence, as well as three inmates who were reportedly at the station during Ojwang’s detention.
In a firm declaration, Hassan assured the public that no one will be spared: “We appeal for calm and reaffirm that there will be no sacred cows. Anyone found culpable will face the full force of the law.”
Meanwhile, IPOA has condemned what it terms as “unjustifiable and excessive” police action during Tuesday’s protests demanding justice for Ojwang’. At least 13 protesters were injured, including Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, who was shot and remains in critical condition.
“The brutal shooting of Mr. Kariuki is a grim reminder of the urgent need to reform public order policing and ensure that rights of detainees are upheld,” IPOA stated.
The Authority is now calling on the Inspector General of Police to enforce strict adherence to the law across all police operations, urging reforms that can restore public trust in the service.
