Investigations into the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang have taken a dramatic turn, implicating top-ranking police officials, including Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat.
New findings from DCI reveal that Lagat maintained regular communication with Nairobi Central OCS Samson Talaam, who was in touch with a Subaru driver that transported Ojwang from Homa Bay.This direct communication link between Lagat, Talaam and the driver has drawn sharp focus from the Internal Affairs Unit and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
Detectives have filed an application to access phone data to establish whether this contact was coincidental or coordinated.
Constable James Mukhwana, already in custody, reportedly told investigators that the directive to “discipline” Ojwang came from OCS Talaam, who claimed he was following orders from DIG Lagat.
Though the intention was not allegedly to kill, Ojwang died hours later, showing signs of blunt force trauma and neck compression.At least 17 police officers connected to Ojwang’s arrest and custody are now under active investigation.
IPOA, working alongside the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, expects to recommend charges by next week.
Meanwhile, other individuals, including officers suspected of tampering with CCTV footage and inmates present during the incident, have been arraigned.
As the investigation intensifies, IPOA is relying on forensic evidence and phone records to establish a trail of responsibility that may reach the very top of the police hierarchy.
By People Daily