Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has provided a detailed chronology of the events leading to the arrest and subsequent death of Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody. Speaking to the media on Monday, Kanja expressed concern over the incident and affirmed the National Police Service’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Ojwang was arrested on Friday in Homa Bay County by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). He was later transported to Nairobi for further interrogation by officers at the DCI headquarters. According to IG Kanja, Ojwang was booked at Central Police Station under Occurrence Book number 136/7/6/2025 at 9:35 pm.
During a routine inspection of the cells, officers discovered Ojwang unconscious. He was immediately rushed to Mbagathi Hospital for emergency treatment, an event recorded under Occurrence Book number 9/08/06/2025 at 1:39 am. Upon arrival at the hospital, medical personnel pronounced him dead.
Kanja noted that given the sensitive nature of the death occurring in police custody, a formal investigation was immediately initiated. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) was promptly notified to begin a thorough inquiry, in accordance with the statutory framework governing such incidents.
To pave way for an impartial investigation, the IG ordered the interdiction of all officers who were on duty the night Ojwang was found unconscious. This includes the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), the Duty Officer, the Cell Sentry, and any other officer identified to have had involvement in the matter.
“The National Police Service remains committed to upholding the rule of law, human rights, transparency, and accountability,” Kanja emphasized.
He assured the public that the police service will fully cooperate with IPOA and that updates will be shared as investigations continue. The incident has sparked widespread concern among human rights groups, with many calling for justice and an independent autopsy to establish the exact cause of death.
Kanja’s swift action and transparency in this case signal a renewed effort by the police service to address concerns over custodial deaths and enhance public trust in law enforcement institutions.
