Public Outcry Forces Police to Name Officers Linked to Ojwang’s Mysterious Death in Custody

The death of Brian Ojwang while in police custody has sparked a national uproar in Kenya, forcing authorities to take action amid widespread demands for accountability, justice, and transparency in the police service.

Police had initially claimed that Ojwang died after hitting his head against the wall of a police cell. However, this explanation was rejected by the public and his family after disturbing evidence emerged. His body reportedly showed visible bruises on the shoulders and arms, a swollen face, and bleeding from the nose and mouth.

As public pressure mounted, Inspector General Japhet Koome ordered the immediate interdiction of all officers on duty during Ojwang’s detention and death. However, many civil society organizations, human rights activists, and political leaders argued that the move was insufficient. They demanded the public release of the officers’ names and full transparency in the ongoing investigation.

Responding to the growing calls for justice, the National Police Service (NPS) on Monday, June 9, released the names of the six interdicted officers:

• CI Samson Talaam – Officer Commanding Station (OCS)

• IP Samuel Nganga – Duty Officer

• CPL Charles Muruki – Duty NCO

• PC/W Debian Lusweti – Crime Aid

• PC Peter Kimani – Cell Sentry

• PC/W Evaine Kanyiri – Report Office Personnel

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), which is conducting independent investigations, confirmed that Ojwang died just one hour after being booked at the station. IPOA investigators also recovered blood-stained personal items from the holding cell, raising further alarm about the conditions under which Ojwang died.

The case has amplified ongoing concerns about police brutality in Kenya, particularly incidents involving deaths in police custody. Human rights groups have called for a swift and impartial investigation, prosecution of any officers found culpable, and reforms to prevent future abuses.

IPOA emphasized that all officers involved will be subject to the law and due process. Still, the Kenyan public continues to demand justice for Ojwang and broader police accountability.