A shocking revelation has emerged in the ongoing investigation into the death of Albert Ojwang, a detainee who died after a brutal beating in a Nairobi police station cell. Police Constable James Mukhwana has admitted that four inmates were paid Sh2,000 to “discipline” Ojwang — not to kill him.
In an affidavit filed with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) on June 13, Mukhwana disclosed that he received the money from a senior officer and used it to buy alcohol for the remandees tasked with the beating. According to Mukhwana, the alcohol was a condition set by the inmates before they could carry out the operation.
“This is the truth of what happened. Ojwang was not meant to be killed but to be disciplined as per instruction,” said Mukhwana in his statement. He detailed how he approached a seasoned remandee with the assignment, who then identified a group willing to execute the beating — provided they were given alcohol first.
Mukhwana went to the canteen, purchased the drinks using the Sh2,000, and delivered them to the inmates. The beating took place between 9:30 pm and 10:00 pm in what he described as “the last cells,” a secluded part of the station near the toilet.
The operation, Mukhwana said, was facilitated by his colleague who took over the sentry post and helped summon the selected inmates into the area where Ojwang was being held.
“I told my colleague there is Sh2,000 given out. Kuna mahabusu anakuja, boss anataka mmshughulikie kidogo – yani discipline kidogo,” Mukhwana stated.
Mukhwana has since expressed remorse for the incident, offering an apology to Ojwang’s family. “I am sorry for the death of Ojwang. May God help them to heal the loss. I know it is painful.”
The shocking confession is expected to deepen investigations into police brutality and complicity within the criminal justice system, raising serious concerns about inmate safety and ethical conduct in police custody. IPOA continues to investigate the matter.
