The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has cleared Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat of any wrongdoing in the controversial killing of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang’. The decision comes after months of public pressure and investigation into the incident that sparked national outrage and demands for police accountability.
In a statement released Tuesday morning, IPOA said it found “insufficient evidence to link DIG Lagat directly or indirectly to the events leading to the death of Albert Ojwang’.” The authority noted that its inquiry focused on the chain of command, communication logs, and eyewitness accounts, none of which placed Lagat at the scene or implicated him in any orders related to the fatal shooting.
Meanwhile, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has approved murder charges against six individuals: Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Samson Talam, officers James Mukwana and Peter Kimani, along with three unnamed civilians. The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court later this week.
According to the IPOA investigation, Ojwang’ was allegedly targeted following his vocal criticism of local leadership and police conduct in Migori County. He was reportedly abducted outside his home before his body was found with gunshot wounds in a thicket two days later.
Human rights groups have welcomed the progress but continue to demand transparency and justice. “This is a step forward, but it must not end here,” said Njeri Kihika of the Social Justice Network. “We expect full accountability not only for those who pulled the trigger but for anyone who enabled this heinous act.”
DIG Lagat, through his legal team, expressed relief at the decision, reiterating his commitment to lawful policing and the rule of law. He urged the public to allow the judicial process to unfold without interference.
The case continues to draw significant attention across the country, seen as a litmus test for the government’s commitment to ending extrajudicial killings and holding security forces accountable.
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