The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) on Monday, July 14, refuted claims that Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Lagat has been exonerated in connection with the death of Albert Ojwang in police custody, calling the reports “misleading.”
IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan confirmed the oversight body launched investigations immediately after the incident and has already identified several suspects, who are currently facing charges in court.
“IPOA’s investigation is still active and therefore the reports that the Authority has exonerated Mr. Lagat are misleading,” Hassan said in a statement.
“If the investigations find him culpable, IPOA will make appropriate recommendations to hold him to account.”
Hassan stated that the Authority remains committed to impartial investigations and due process.
The case has attracted national attention and renewed public scrutiny on police accountability in Kenya.
Lagat Return to Office Reports
There was confusion on Monday, July 14, about whether embattled Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat had officially returned to work after stepping aside over the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang in police custody.
Also Read: Police Spokesperson Denies DIG Lagat Return to Office
Lagat stepped aside on June 16 amid public outcry over Ojwang’s death on June 8 at the Nairobi Central Police Station, where he was held after arrest by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The incident sparked widespread protests and intensified scrutiny over police brutality in Kenya.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja had earlier told Daily Nation that Lagat had been exonerated
“I hope to see him back at the office today because he has been cleared by all the investigations,” Kanja said on Sunday.
In Lagat’s absence, Principal Deputy Patrick Tito has been acting in his role.
As of Monday morning, it remained uncertain whether Lagat had physically resumed office at Vigilance House.
Court on DIG Lagat Case
The High Court issued a directive regarding Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat’s return to office.
Also Read: Kenyan Couple Arrested for Selling Own Kids in Online Sex Scheme
In a ruling dated Monday, July 14, 2025, Justice Chacha Mwita declined to issue orders barring DIG Lagat from resuming his duties.
Instead, the court granted Lagat until July 23, 2025, to respond to a suit filed by activist Eliud Matindi.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has so far approved murder charges against six individuals in connection to death of Albert Ojwang, including:
Three police officers: Samson Kiprotich Talaam, James Mukhwana, and Peter Kimani.
Three civilians: John Ngige Gitau, Gin Ammitou Abwao, and Brian Mwaniki Njue.
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