By Ernest Bandi
The National Police Service (NPS) has announced the suspension of five police officers stationed at Nairobi Central Police Station following the death of blogger and teacher Albert Omondi Ojwang while in custody.
In a press release issued Monday, NPS confirmed that the suspended officers include the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), the duty officer on the night shift, the cell sentry, and all officers who were on duty during the night of the incident. The police service also indicated that any other officer found to have played a role in the incident will face similar disciplinary action.
“The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has directed the suspensions to allow for an impartial and thorough investigation led by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA),” said NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga.
The death of Ojwang, a popular social media commentator and secondary school teacher, has sparked outrage and demands for justice from across the country. Reports indicate that Ojwang was arrested under unclear circumstances at his family home in Kakot, Homa Bay County, by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). He was initially detained at Mawego Police Station before being transferred to Nairobi Central Police Station, where he died.
According to preliminary statements from police, Ojwang sustained fatal head injuries allegedly after hitting his head against a wall while in custody. However, his family, supporters, and human rights activists have rejected that explanation, calling for an independent postmortem and thorough investigation into possible police brutality and misconduct.
The case has attracted widespread attention, with politicians, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, calling for the immediate suspension of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, who is alleged to have been involved in ordering Ojwang’s arrest.
“The NPS remains committed to upholding the rule of law, human rights, transparency, and accountability within the service,” said Muchiri Nyaga. “We encourage IPOA to carry out its mandate without interference so that justice can be served.”
Civil society groups and legal experts have welcomed the suspensions but insist they are only the first step. They are calling for the prosecution of any officers found culpable and for broader reforms within the police force to address systemic abuse and impunity.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has begun its investigation, and the findings are expected to shape the next course of action for both the police and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in for Ojwang, remembered by students, colleagues, and followers as a fearless voice, a dedicated teacher, and an advocate for justice. His family has called for calm and urged authorities to allow the law to take its course.
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