IG Douglas Kanja Suspends Five Officers Over Death of Albert Ojwang’ in Police Custody

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has suspended five officers following the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang’, who died while in police custody.

Kanja also released a detailed account of the events leading up to Ojwang’s arrest and subsequent death.

According to the IG, Ojwang was arrested by DCI detectives in Homa Bay County on Friday and was later booked at the Central Police Station in Nairobi.

The entry was recorded in the Occurrence Book as number 136/7/6/2025 at 9:35 p.m.

During a routine inspection of the cells, Ojwang was found unconscious. He was immediately rushed to Mbagathi Hospital for treatment, as noted in OB number 9/08/06/2025 at 1:39 a.m. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

“Given the circumstances surrounding the incident, it was necessary to investigate the death in accordance with regulations governing death in police custody,” Kanja stated.

To facilitate thorough and prompt investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the Inspector General ordered the immediate interdiction of the officers involved.

Those suspended include the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) of Central Police Station, the Duty Officer on shift that night, the Cell Sentry, all officers stationed at the Report Office during the incident, and any other officer who was on duty or found to be involved.

“The National Police Service remains committed to upholding the rule of law, human rights, transparency, and accountability,” Kanja added.

Public outrage

Ojwang’s death has sparked public outrage and intensified concerns over police accountability and the treatment of detainees in Kenya.

His arrest was reportedly under unclear circumstances, and his demise while in custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station has raised serious questions about conditions in detention facilities and the conduct of officers responsible.