he Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has expressed serious concern following the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang’ while in custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station.

In a statement released on Monday, 9 June 2025, KNCHR strongly condemned what it described as a “premature police narrative” that Ojwang’ died as a result of self-inflicted wounds.

The commission criticised the police for jumping to conclusions before independent forensic investigations were completed, warning that such actions risk eroding public confidence in law enforcement agencies.

Premature police claims

“The Commission is deeply troubled by how police are handling the investigations into the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang,” the statement said.

It added, “Releasing unverified information before forensic results are available undermines the credibility of the investigation and reflects a troubling pattern of impunity within law enforcement.”

Arrest and detainment

Ojwang’ was taken into custody by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kakot, Homa Bay County, on Saturday, June 7, 2025, afternoon.

The arrest followed an inquiry into a derogatory post he published on the social media platform X.

He was subsequently transferred to Nairobi and held at the Central Police Station.

When his family visited the station on Sunday seeking updates, they were told Ojwang’ had died and that his body had been taken to the City Mortuary.

Police have stated that Ojwang’ died in hospital due to injuries he inflicted on himself by hitting the cell walls

An officer reportedly discovered him bleeding from the head during a routine cell check. Ojwang’ was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Visible injuries noted

Officials from KNCHR who inspected the body at City Mortuary reported visible injuries on Ojwang’s face, hands, and the back of his head.

His head was notably swollen, with blood evident around his nose and mouth, facts that raise troubling questions about the true cause of death, the commission stated.

Ongoing independent probes

KNCHR has launched an independent inquiry into the circumstances of Ojwang’s death. The matter is also under investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).

Police have confirmed that Deputy Inspector-General Eliud Lagat filed the complaint that led to Ojwang’s arrest.

Inspector-General Douglas Kanja announced on Monday, June 9, 2025, that several officers stationed at the Central Police Station during Ojwang’s detention had been interdicted.

Those include the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), the duty officer on Saturday night, officers responsible for cell entry, and personnel manning the report office.