IPOA denies exonerating DIG Lagat in Ojwang’s murder probe
By Arnold Ngure, July 14, 2025The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has dismissed reports that it has exonerated the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, in the murder of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’.
In a statement on Monday, July 14, 2025, IPOA, which has been leading investigations into the heinous murder of Ojwang’ on June 8, 2025, at the Central Police Station, urged members of the public not to jump to the conclusion that they had let Lagat off the hook.
“As reported through various statements, IPOA launched investigations into the late Ojwang’s death in police custody on 8th June, 2025. Preliminary investigations identified some suspects who have since been arraigned in court,” IPOA’s statement reads in part.
Hold to account
IPOA chairperson Issack Hassan equally indicated that the authority would recommend appropriate actions to be taken against Lagat if he is found culpable in the death of Ojwang’.
“IPOA’s investigation is still active, and therefore, the reports that the Authority has exonerated Lagat are misleading. If the investigations find him culpable, IPOA will make appropriate recommendations to hold him to account,” IPOA noted.
The remarks come just hours after the National Police Service (NPS) dismissed reports circulating on the return of Lagat to his Vigilance House office in Nairobi.
Lagat’s stepping aside
Lagat stepped aside one week later after a public outcry over the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s murder.
His stepping aside followed the suspension of police officers on duty at the Central Police Station during the time of the late teacher’s murder.
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 would take over the functions of the office until the investigations are completed.
Equally, he 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,” Lagat said on June 16, 2025.