The Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has taken decisive action by interdicting several police officers stationed at Central Police Station following the mysterious death of Albert Ojwang while in custody. This move comes amid growing public outcry and demands for a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Albert’s demise.
The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a formal statement explaining that the interdictions aim to facilitate an independent and thorough investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA). This investigation seeks to clarify the events that led to Albert’s death and ensure accountability within the police ranks.
Among those interdicted are key officers who were on duty during the incident. The Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Central Police Station, the duty officer on the night of June 7, 2025, the officer responsible for supervising the detention cells, as well as all officers assigned to the report office during the incident, have been suspended. Additionally, any other police personnel involved in handling Albert Ojwang while he was in custody are included in the interdiction order.
The NPS emphasized its commitment to upholding the rule of law, respecting human rights, and maintaining transparency and accountability. The service promised to keep the public informed as the investigations progress, signaling a willingness to cooperate fully with the oversight authority.
The tragic death has sparked widespread concern and calls for clarity. Police officials initially revealed that Albert Ojwang died after hitting his head on a wall inside the cell at the detention center. This explanation has been met with skepticism and anger by many Kenyans who are demanding a more detailed and transparent inquiry into how such an injury could have occurred while he was under police care.
Albert Ojwang, a well-known social media influencer, was arrested at his home in Kabondo-Kasipul constituency. Notably, his arrest was conducted in the presence of his father, Meshack Ojwang. After the arrest, Albert was briefly held at Mawego Police Station before being transferred approximately 300 kilometers away to Central Police Station in Nairobi. This transfer over such a long distance raised questions about the reasons behind the move and the conditions of his detention.
His father, Meshack Ojwang Opiyo, traveled overnight from their home to Nairobi to visit his son, only to be met with the devastating news that Albert had died while in custody. Upon arrival at the police station, the family was denied access to the detention cell where Albert sustained the fatal injury, fueling further suspicion and distrust toward the police.
Albert’s body was taken to Nairobi Funeral Home, formerly known as City Mortuary, after being pronounced dead on arrival at Mbagathi Hospital. According to the police statement, Albert had been rushed to the hospital following the injury sustained inside the cell, but efforts to save him were unsuccessful.
The circumstances around Albert’s death have raised serious questions about police detention practices and the treatment of detainees. The case has also intensified scrutiny on police accountability in Kenya, a subject that has garnered increasing public attention amid allegations of misconduct in custody.
The interdiction of several officers involved is a crucial step towards addressing these concerns and ensuring an impartial investigation. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), tasked with investigating police conduct, is expected to play a key role in uncovering the facts and making recommendations.
As the inquiry unfolds, there is heightened public expectation that justice will be served, and that the National Police Service will take meaningful steps to restore trust with the communities they serve. The case of Albert Ojwang has become a somber reminder of the importance of transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights within law enforcement agencies.
