IPOA Issues Statement On DIG Lagat’s Clearance In Ojwang’s Murder Investigation
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has denied that it has cleared Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat of responsibility for the murder of Albert Ojwang, a teacher-cum-blogger who died in police detention last month.
In a sharply worded statement, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan underlined that the probe is still underway and that no one has been cleared.
According to the IPOA, the investigation into Ojwang’s inexplicable death began on June 8, 2025, and has since resulted in the arrest of various individuals discovered during the preliminary phase.
The Authority highlighted that its investigation is still ongoing and that it remains committed to uncovering the truth about the occurrence.
The IPOA further stated that it will not back down in holding the police chief accountable if investigations link him to the event.
As reported through various statements, IPOA launched investigations into the late Ojwang’s death in police custody on 8th June, 2025. Preliminary investigations identified some suspects who have since been arraigned in court. IPOA’s investigation is still active and therefore…
— IPOA (@IPOA_KE) July 14, 2025
“The reports suggesting that IPOA has exonerated Mr. Lagat are not only premature but also misleading,” Hassan stated.
“If the investigations find him culpable, IPOA will make appropriate recommendations to hold him to account.”
IPOA told the public that the inquiry is being conducted independently, without external influence, and in accordance with constitutional duties.
On Monday, reports suggested that the authorities had cleared Lagat and that he was ready to resume his duties.
However, we were unable to independently verify whether the top cop had returned to his office.
Meanwhile, the High Court declined to grant orders preventing Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat from returning to office in response to a lawsuit contesting his reinstatement.
While issuing directives on Monday, Justice Chacha Mwita decided that Lagat should be given a fair hearing before any interim measures are issued.
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The court ordered the embattled police chief to answer to the case brought by activist Eliud Matindi by July 23, 2025.
Matindi requested an order banning Lagat from performing any DIG activities while the case was being heard and determined.
Ojwang was arrested after reportedly tweeting disparaging comments about DIG Lagat on social media.
According to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Lagat filed an official complaint against the blogger, prompting his arrest.
IPOA Issues Statement On DIG Lagat’s Clearance In Ojwang’s Murder Investigation
