DIG Eliud Lagat steps aside pending investigation into Albert Ojwang's death

Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat. (Photo: National Police Service)

By Lucy Mumbi
Monday, June 16, 2025

DIG Eliud Lagat said he stepped aside from his position to pave way for investigations into the death of Albert Ojwang’, a suspect who died in police custody under unclear circumstances.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service Eliud Kipkoech Lagat has stepped aside from his position to pave the way for investigations into the death of Albert Ojwang’, a suspect who died in police custody under unclear circumstances.

The DIG, whose name has featured prominently in the ongoing probe, voluntarily relinquished his duties amid mounting public pressure and calls from senior figures, including former Chief Justice David Maraga, for his arrest and prosecution.

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In a statement on Monday, June 16, Lagat said; “In the good and conscious thought of my role and responsibilities as the Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police Service, and, in view of the ongoing investigations on the unfortunate incident of the death of Mr. Albert Ojwang’, I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General – Kenya Police Service pending completion of investigations.”

Lagat added that his deputy would take over his responsibilities in the interim and pledged to cooperate fully with investigators.

“I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident. I offer immense condolences to the family of Mr. Albert Ojwang for their great loss,” read the statement in part.

Ojwang’, who was reportedly arrested following a defamation complaint filed by DIG Lagat, died under mysterious circumstances while being held at Central Police Station. The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, told the Senate on June 11 that the matter was being investigated, adding that it had originated from online posts alleging corruption involving Lagat.

“The post claimed that he was involved in corruption within the NPS. Specifically, the published information alleged that Lagat has strategically placed his most trusted officers in charge of the DCI books desk and traffic shifts to control both revenue streams and intelligence flow,” IG Kanja told Senators.

He further cited another post that depicted DIG Lagat alongside senior traffic commander Joseph Chirchir with the caption: “EACC investigating top cop after purchase of $2.6 million home in Dubai,” and the headline “Eliud Lagat mafia police.”

As the investigation gained momentum, Kenyans staged protests last week demanding Lagat’s resignation.

On Monday, former Chief Justice Maraga weighed in on the matter, stating, “There is prima facie evidence that Mr. Eliud Lagat, directly or indirectly, by himself or through his accomplices, is implicated in the illegal arrest, torture, strangulation and eventual murder of the late Albert Ojwang’. Yet, Mr. Lagat still remains in office. It is now time to immediately arrest and institute prosecutions against Mr. Lagat.”

So far, two police officers, Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam and Constable James Mukhwana, have been arrested in connection with the case.

Additionally, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has arrested three civilians, including Gin Ammitou Abwao, Collins Karani Ireri, and Brian Mwaniki Njue. The three were reportedly detainees at the Central Police Station when Ojwang’ was held there and are alleged to have been used by officers to torture him, resulting in his death.

Investigations remain ongoing.