Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Kipkoech Lagat, has temporarily vacated his position as public scrutiny deepens over the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang’. The blogger died under unclear circumstances shortly after being arrested in connection with a defamation complaint reportedly linked to Lagat himself.
In a statement released Monday, Lagat cited public interest and the demands of accountability as the basis of his decision.
“After careful reflection and in light of ongoing investigations, I have chosen to step aside from the role of Deputy Inspector General Kenya Police Service. My deputy will assume my duties until the matter is resolved,” he announced.
He pledged to fully support the investigative process and extended sympathies to Ojwang’s family, calling the incident “unfortunate.”
Ojwang’s death has stirred widespread public anger, especially following reports that his arrest came days after he published explosive claims accusing Lagat of corruption. The blogger alleged irregular deployment of officers within key police departments such as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and traffic units postings often viewed as lucrative due to their ties to revenue and intelligence.
During a Senate appearance on June 11, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed an internal probe was underway. The move followed social media reports linking Lagat to a $2.6 million property in Dubai, with some users dubbing him a “mafia police” boss.
Pressure has continued to mount, with protesters taking to the streets to demand justice and Lagat’s resignation. The situation escalated further after former Chief Justice David Maraga weighed in, urging for Lagat’s immediate arrest and prosecution.
“There is credible preliminary evidence suggesting Mr. Lagat either orchestrated or was complicit in the illegal arrest, torture, and murder of Albert Ojwang’,” said Maraga. “Law must now take its course.”
The investigation has already seen arrests within the police ranks. Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam and Police Constable James Mukhwana are in custody, alongside three civilian detainees Gin Ammitou Abwao, Collins Karani Ireri, and Brian Mwaniki Njue who were reportedly held at the same station as Ojwang’. IPOA officials allege the trio were coerced by officers to assault Ojwang’, a brutal ordeal that may have led to his death.
The unfolding case has triggered national calls for transparency, justice, and sweeping police reforms.
