Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss Mohamed Amin has defended the official account of the final hours leading up to the death of Albert Ojwang while in police custody. Speaking before the National Assembly’s Committee on Administration and Internal Security, Amin presented a detailed timeline of Ojwang’s detention and medical condition prior to his death.
Ojwang, who was arrested in Homa Bay on Saturday, July 6, 2025, was initially held at Mawego Police Station before being transferred to Nairobi Central Police Station by officers from DCI headquarters. According to Amin, the officers left Mawego at 3:43 pm and arrived at the Nairobi station at 9:32 pm. Ojwang was then booked under Occurrence Book (OB) number 136/07/06/2025 for the offence of publishing false information.
Amin insisted that Ojwang appeared to be in normal physical condition at the time of booking, a fact he said was officially recorded. Police Constables Mohamed Abdullahi and Mukwana were responsible for the booking and placement of Ojwang in the holding cells.
However, at 1:35 am on June 8, PC Abdullahi reported unusual behaviour in a digital OB entry. Ojwang was allegedly found alone in his cell, making noise and violently kicking the walls. Duty Officer Inspector Ng’ang’a and Cell Sentry PC Kimani confirmed this after inspecting the cells.
“This record cannot be altered,” Amin emphasized, defending the integrity of the documentation process.
Shortly after, Ojwang was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital at around 2 am, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. A letter from the hospital confirmed the timeline of his admission.
Responding to questions regarding oversight, Amin noted that only the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) has the authority to approve the admission of detainees, especially those showing signs of physical injury. He explained that Senior Sergeant Sigei contacted the OCS before Ojwang was admitted into custody.
The case continues to raise public concern, with many demanding an independent investigation into the circumstances of Ojwang’s death amid allegations of police brutality and custodial negligence.
