The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has officially taken over a probe into alleged misconduct by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) in the ongoing investigation into the murder of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’.
The investigation follows a formal complaint lodged by Nairobi Central Police Station Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Samson Talaam, who confirmed that a letter requesting DCI’s intervention was received on June 19.
At the centre of the probe is a mobile phone seized from OCS Talaam during IPOA’s investigation into Ojwang’s murder. The phone, along with its password, was handed over to IPOA. However, suspicions arose when text messages allegedly requesting money were reportedly sent from the phone while it remained in IPOA’s custody.
“We wrote a letter to the DCI requesting them to institute investigations,” said Victor Awiti, confirming the matter is under active probe.
In court proceedings, a forensic officer testified to witnessing the phone being seized. Lawyer Danstan Omari, representing Talaam, emphasized that the phone was submitted to IPOA as an institution, not to any individual officer.
“This is IPOA’s jurisdiction,” said Omari. “But with the alleged misuse of the device while in their possession, the criminal aspect falls squarely under the DCI’s purview, in line with Articles 244 and 245 of the Constitution.”
Omari also revealed that his client has demanded IPOA step aside to ensure impartial investigations. “The IPOA offices are now part of a crime scene. The DCI knows what must be done,” he added.
However, Awiti dismissed the call for IPOA officials to step aside, terming the demands as legally unfounded and premature. “There is a clear constitutional process for removing IPOA officials. Demanding their exit now is unnecessary,” he stated.
So far, two witnesses have recorded statements, and the DCI is expected to submit a comprehensive report. The case will be mentioned again in court on July 1, 2025, as the probe into both the murder and the alleged misconduct continues.
