Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat Steps Aside Amid Albert Ojwang’s Death Probe
Eliud Kipkoech Lagat, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service, has officially stepped aside from his role following intense public pressure and a growing investigation into the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang’.
Lagat’s decision to step aside comes amid widespread public outrage and calls for accountability over Ojwang’s death, which occurred while he was in police custody. His name surfaced after it was revealed that a defamation complaint he filed against the late blogger led to Ojwang’s arrest, setting off a chain of events that ended tragically.
Inspector General Douglas Kanja, while appearing before the Senate on June 11, disclosed that the investigation was prompted by online allegations implicating DIG Lagat in corruption within the National Police Service. The viral posts claimed that Lagat had positioned close allies in key traffic and DCI roles to manipulate revenue flows and internal intelligence.
One particularly damning post showed Lagat alongside senior traffic commander Joseph Chirchir, suggesting both were under investigation by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over a $2.6 million home purchase in Dubai. The headline read, “Eliud Lagat mafia police”.
As the allegations gained traction, outraged Kenyans took to the streets demanding his removal. On Monday, retired Chief Justice David Maraga called for Lagat’s arrest and prosecution, emphasizing the urgency of justice.
“There is prima facie evidence that Mr. Eliud Lagat — directly or indirectly — is linked to the illegal arrest, torture, and murder of Albert Ojwang’. It’s time to arrest and charge him without delay,” said Maraga.
Meanwhile, Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam and Constable James Mukhwana have already been arrested. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has also taken into custody three civilians — Gin Ammitou Abwao, Collins Karani Ireri, and Brian Mwaniki Njue — who are believed to have been used by police officers to torture Ojwang’ while in custody.
Lagat stepping aside allows investigations to proceed without interference, but the public continues to demand full justice for Ojwang’ and meaningful police reforms across Kenya.
