IPOA summons deputy IG Lagat in widening probe into blogger’s death

The blogger’s controversial death has triggered a national uproar amid mounting pressure for accountability at the highest levels of Kenya’s police service.

IPOA Chairperson Isack Hassan confirmed Wednesday that Lagat had been formally summoned, noting that at least 20 police officers, including the deputy Officer Commanding Station (OCS) of Nairobi's Central Police Station, had already given their statements. 

The authorities have also requested mobile phone data from Safaricom to aid the investigation.

“DIG Lagat needs to appear before us to shed light on the investigations and give his side of the story,” said Hassan. “We assure the public that there will be no sacred cows in this quest for justice.”

Lagat voluntarily stepped down from his duties earlier this week, citing the need to maintain the integrity of his office and allow for impartial investigations.

In a public statement, he said the decision was made in “good and conscious thought” of the public interest and pledged full cooperation with the probe.

“I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations,” he stated, while also expressing condolences to Ojwang’s family.

Ojwang’, a vocal blogger known for exposing alleged misconduct within the police ranks, was arrested shortly after publishing claims linking Lagat to corrupt practices. 

His allegations included accusations of bribery and strategic officer placements within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and traffic units — positions reportedly used to control revenue and intelligence networks.

Following Ojwang’s arrest, his subsequent death in custody sparked widespread condemnation and protests. The situation escalated after former Chief Justice David Maraga publicly called for Lagat’s immediate arrest and prosecution, citing “prima facie evidence” of his involvement in Ojwang’s arrest, torture, and death.

“There is prima facie evidence that Mr. Eliud Lagat — directly or indirectly — is implicated in the illegal arrest, torture, strangulation, and eventual murder of the late Albert Ojwang’,” said Maraga during a press briefing on Monday.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, in a June 11 appearance before the Senate, acknowledged the initiation of internal investigations after social media posts accused Lagat of corruption and alleged his ownership of a $2.6 million property in Dubai.

So far, Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam and Police Constable James Mukhwana have been arrested in connection with the case. Additionally, IPOA has detained three civilian suspects — Gin Ammitou Abwao, Collins Karani Ireri, and Brian Mwaniki Njue — who were held at the same station during Ojwang’s detention. Investigators believe they were used by police to physically abuse Ojwang’, leading to his death.