A family in Kuria West, Migori County, is demanding answers after their relative, 40-year-old Alan Kamau Kimani, reportedly died while being held at Komomwamu Police Post.
According to Vocal Africa CEO Hussein Khalid, Kimani was arrested on Thursday, September 25, for allegedly cutting down trees. His mother, Mary Wambui, said she received a call about her son’s arrest and later visited him at the station.
Wambui claims police demanded Sh15,000 for his release an amount she could not raise. The following day, she allegedly received another call warning her of consequences if she failed to provide the money. Hours later, she was informed that her son had died in custody.
Police reportedly told Wambui that Kimani had taken his own life. However, Khalid noted that the family disputes this explanation, citing possible foul play. The incident has heightened tensions in the area, with the family calling for the immediate arrest of the officers involved.
Vocal Africa confirmed it is working with the family and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to facilitate an autopsy and push for accountability.
This case follows another troubling death in police custody in Mombasa, where 35-year-old Simon Warui died at Central Police Station under unclear circumstances. His family had initially reported him missing in Nairobi, only to later discover he had been detained in Mombasa.
In a statement, IPOA chairperson Issack Hassan confirmed that Warui’s post-mortem indicated cardiorespiratory collapse due to a fractured or dislocated neck, consistent with a fall from height. IPOA has launched investigations into both cases.
Hassan assured the public that IPOA will pursue justice and emphasized the importance of protecting the safety and rights of all individuals in police custody.
Meanwhile, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has also raised concern, with its president Faith Adhiambo questioning how Warui ended up detained in Mombasa despite being reported missing in Nairobi.
Both families continue to demand answers and justice, highlighting growing concerns over the safety of suspects in police custody across Kenya.
