Albert Ojwang’s Arrest Linked to Defamation Complaint by Deputy IG Lagat — IG Kanja Confirms
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has confirmed that the late social media influencer and teacher, Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody, was being investigated for allegedly defaming Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.
Speaking to the media during a press briefing at Central Police Station in Nairobi on Monday, IG Kanja revealed that Ojwang’s arrest followed a formal complaint filed by DIG Lagat. Ojwang was apprehended at his residence in Homa Bay County on Friday by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Authorities say the arrest stemmed from accusations of spreading false information online.
Ojwang was reportedly questioned on Saturday and later officially booked at the station under Occurrence Book (OB) number 136/7/6/2025 at 9:35 PM. Kanja noted that Ojwang was then moved to a separate holding area within the police station.
Tragically, officers conducting routine cell checks later found Ojwang unconscious. He was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
In response to public concern, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched a formal inquiry into the incident. IPOA officials visited the station, and the authority’s chairperson, Ahmed Issack Hassan, personally inspected the site on Sunday night to assess the situation.
IPOA has assured the public, particularly Ojwang’s family, that the investigation will be conducted with full transparency and integrity. The authority has also urged senior police officials not to interfere with the ongoing probe.
The incident has sparked national attention, with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua demanding the immediate suspension of Deputy IG Lagat. Gachagua accused Lagat of running Central and Kamukunji Police Stations independently, allegedly without the knowledge of the Inspector General. He questioned the motive behind Ojwang’s transfer from Homa Bay to the Central Police Station in Nairobi, calling the move suspicious.
According to earlier police reports, Ojwang allegedly sustained fatal injuries after hitting his head on a wall while in custody. However, with public outcry growing, many are calling for a full and independent investigation to uncover the truth behind his death.
