Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja flanked by DIG Gilbert Masengeli and IPOA chairperson Isaack Hassan address the press at Central police station on June 9, 2025/LEAH MUKANGAI
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has assured the family of the late Albert Ojwang’ and the nation that a thorough investigation into his death is underway and justice will be served.
Addressing the press outside Nairobi Central Police Station, IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan confirmed that investigation teams have already visited the scene and begun their inquiries.
“We have received the information about the death from the IG and we have commenced our investigations in accordance with the law,” he said.
“I want to assure his father (Mzee Ojwang) and members of the public that IPOA will do everything possible to ensure that justice is served for the family and to Kenyans.”
Hassan also welcomed the decision by the Inspector General of Police to interdict officers who were on duty during the time of the incident, including the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), pending the outcome of investigations.
The IPOA chair was flanked by Inspector General Douglas Kanja, DIGs Eliud Lagat (KPS), and Gilbert Masengeli (APS) during a joint visit to the station.
Ojwang, a teacher based in Voi, is said to have died by suicide inside the cells where he had been detained.
He was been arrested Saturday in Homa Bay town over what authorities described as a "derogatory" post on X (formerly Twitter).
Ojwang, according to his father, Meshack Opiyo, had travelled to Homa Bay to visit the family when he was picked up by police officers.
He was later transferred to Nairobi and booked at a police station for further questioning. Police said he died by suicide after allegedly injuring himself while alone in a cell.
He was found with serious head injuries believed to be self-inflicted and was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
“He was rushed to the hospital after what we think was an attempted suicide. He had injured himself in the head and was rushed to the hospital, where he died. He did not die here in custody,” said Nairobi Central Police boss Stephen Okal.
The body was moved to the mortuary pending an autopsy.
Ojwang’s family has been informed and was expected in Nairobi to witness the post-mortem.
Ojwang’s death has continued to elicit sharp criticism from leaders and human rights advocates, who are demanding accountability and urgent police reforms.
