Tearful scenes unfolded at Ridgeways Baptist Church along Kiambu Road as the body of Albert Ojwang, a young blogger who died under mysterious circumstances in police custody, was received for his requiem mass. His casket, a polished brown wooden one with golden handles, arrived in a hearse with butterfly doors, setting off an emotionally charged moment that left mourners in deep sorrow.
As the casket was opened, family members broke down in anguish. One heart-wrenching moment saw a relative cry out in her native language, her emotions overwhelming her as she lay on the coffin in a desperate attempt to remain close to her loved one. The mass drew in mourners from all walks of life — friends, supporters, and fellow Kenyans — many of whom are still grappling with the shock and unanswered questions surrounding Albert’s sudden death.
Albert’s death has not only left a family in mourning but also ignited national outrage. He was arrested over claims that he spread false information about a high-ranking police official. The police initially alleged that he fatally injured himself in custody by hitting his head against a wall. However, an autopsy later revealed a much more disturbing reality. The post-mortem report pointed to blunt force trauma as the cause of death and showed multiple injuries consistent with torture.
Contradictions soon emerged in the official narrative. Officers claimed Albert was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital after being found unconscious in his cell. However, leaked CCTV footage later showed that he was unresponsive upon arrival at the hospital, raising suspicions that he was already dead by the time medical help was sought. Hospital records later confirmed this timeline, prompting further public scrutiny.
The case has since led to the arrest of multiple individuals, including the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Central Police Station and several other suspects believed to be involved in the incident. Investigations are ongoing, with human rights organizations and family members demanding justice and full accountability for what many are calling a custodial murder.
Following the requiem mass, the body is expected to be flown to Siaya County ahead of final burial rites scheduled for July 4 at his rural home in Kakwonyo, Homa Bay County.
Meanwhile, the grieving family has also had to confront another painful development. It was reported that more than KSh 500,000 raised by well-wishers to support funeral arrangements was withdrawn without their knowledge. According to a family member, attempts to access the funds hit a roadblock due to lack of identification, and when assistance was sought from the mobile service provider, they discovered the account had already been emptied. The loss has added to the family’s anguish during an already difficult time.
Condolence messages have flooded online platforms, with many expressing sorrow and demanding justice. Friends and strangers alike continue to honor Albert’s memory, calling him “teacher,” “brother,” and “mentor,” while mourning not just the loss of his life, but the circumstances that took it.
