The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has dismissed claims that it has cleared Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat over the death of a suspect in custody.
In a statement, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan said reports suggesting that the Authority has exonerated Lagat are “misleading.”
“As reported through various statements, IPOA launched investigations into the late Ojwang’s death in police custody on 8th June, 2025,” Hassan said.
He added that preliminary investigations had identified some suspects who have since been arraigned in court.
However, he said, the authority’s investigation is still active.
“If the investigations find him culpable, IPOA will make appropriate recommendations to hold him to account,” Hassan stated.
IPOA assured the public of its commitment to ensuring accountability in all cases involving deaths in police custody.
The Authority launched the probe following the death of Ojwang on June 8, 2025, while he was in police custody.
Hassan urged patience as the process continues, saying the Authority remains focused on delivering a fair and thorough investigation.
“IPOA’s investigation is still active,” he reiterated.
Lagat was listed as a complainant in Ojwang’s case.
On Thursday, Justice Chacha Mwita declined to issue interim orders barring Lagat from resuming office amid an ongoing legal challenge filed by activist Eliud Matindi.
The High Court judge instead directed Lagat to file his official response to the suit by July 23, allowing the case to proceed through proper legal channels.
The application filed by Matindi, which came up for an inter-parties hearing today, July 14, 2025, had sought, among other players, to prohibit Lagat from carrying out any functions as the deputy inspector general of police.
When the matter came up for hearing before Justice Mwita, the applicant sought orders to stop the deputy inspector general from resuming office today, but Justice Mwita declined and directed that all parties file responses within seven days and appear before him for directions on July 23, 2025.
Matindi had moved to court seeking to block Lagat’s return to office, citing concerns that have yet to be detailed publicly.
The activist is challenging the legality or propriety of Lagat’s tenure or conduct, though the specifics remain under judicial consideration.
