Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has officially stepped aside from his position to allow for an impartial investigation into the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, following days of mounting public pressure.

Lagat’s decision came after sustained uproar from the public and civil society groups, many of whom had called for his resignation to ensure transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigations. The announcement was made through a formal statement issued by his office on Monday, June 16, 2025.

In his statement, Lagat cited his responsibilities and the ongoing nature of the investigations as reasons for temporarily vacating his role. He affirmed that his deputy will now take over the functions of the office until the investigations are completed.

He also pledged to support the inquiry process and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased.

“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 into the unfortunate incident of the death of Albert Ojwang, I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General – Kenya Police Service pending completion of investigations. The functions of the office will henceforth be performed by my deputy until completion of the investigations.” Said DIG in a statement

“I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident. I offer immense condolences to the family of Albert Ojwang for their great loss.” He continued.

Albert Ojwang

Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old Kenyan teacher and blogger, was arrested on June 6, 2025, in Homa Bay following a defamation complaint by Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

He was transferred approximately 350 kilometres to Nairobi’s Central Police Station, where he died hours after being booked on June 7, 2025, under suspicious circumstances.

An autopsy revealed that Ojwang died from blunt force trauma and neck compression, contradicting initial police claims that he had committed suicide.

His death sparked widespread public outrage and protests, with growing calls for DIG Lagat’s resignation. The outcry intensified amid allegations of a cover-up, including reports of tampered CCTV footage at the police station.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is currently investigating 17 officers in connection with the incident. Constable James Mukhwana and the station’s Officer Commanding Station (OCS), Samson Talaam, have been arrested as key persons of interest.