Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga has told the court that the death of Albert Ojwang was the result of a deliberate assault while he was being held in police custody, dismissing claims that it could have been caused by an accident or a medical emergency.
During court proceedings, the prosecution argued that the available evidence points to a violent attack that led to Ojwang’s death.
According to the DPP, the nature of the injuries sustained by the deceased was inconsistent with an accidental fall or any sudden health complication.
Instead, prosecutors maintained that the injuries indicated intentional violence inflicted while he was inside the police cells.
The prosecution urged the court to consider the seriousness of the allegations emphasizing that the case involves the responsibility of law enforcement officers to protect individuals in their custody.
The DPP argued that every person detained by the police is entitled to safety and constitutional protection regardless of the allegations they face.
The case has attracted widespread public attention and renewed debate over accountability within Kenya’s criminal justice system.
Human rights organizations and members of the public have continued to demand transparency and justice insisting that those responsible be held accountable if found guilty.
The prosecution further submitted that attempts to explain the death as a medical emergency or an unfortunate accident are not supported by the evidence presented before the court.
Investigators believe the circumstances surrounding the incident require a full judicial process to establish individual responsibility.
As the case proceeds, the court is expected to evaluate witness testimony, forensic findings and other evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense before making any determination.
The proceedings are being closely watched across the country with many viewing the outcome as an important test of accountability and the rule of law in cases involving deaths in police custody.