Fresh Legal Storm for DIG Lagat as Activists Move to Privately Prosecute Him Over Ojwang’s Death
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Kipkoech Lagat is facing a major legal setback after human rights activists filed a petition for private prosecution over the death of Albert Ojwang.
The petition, filed at Milimani Law Courts, accuses Lagat of being directly responsible for the murder of the 25-year-old influencer. This bold move marks a significant shift in the unfolding case, coming amid growing public anger and distrust in the police’s internal investigations.
“The Honourable Court be pleased to grant the Applicants leave to institute private prosecution against the Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr Eliud Kipkoech Lagat for the offence of murder of one Albert Omondi Ojwang,” read the petition.
Petitioners Slam Investigative Agencies
The petitioners strongly criticised investigative bodies. They claimed that authorities had failed in their duty to act, allowing the DIG to escape scrutiny.
“Investigative agencies have acted capriciously, corruptly, and in a blatant manner,” the petition stated.
They further argued that Ojwang’s death is too grave to be handled internally. Instead, they want independent judicial oversight.
The activists also want the court to bar Lagat from accessing his office or interfering with witnesses.
Lagat Named as Complainant in Ojwang’s Arrest
On June 9, Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja publicly confirmed that Lagat was the complainant in the case that led to Ojwang’s arrest. The influencer was detained in Homa Bay over alleged false publication on his X account.
Appearing before the Senate, Kanja revealed that the posts accused Lagat of orchestrating corruption within the police service.
“These claims were found to be defamatory, unsubstantiated, and of significant public concern,” Kanja explained.
The posts, shared under the account Pixel Pioneer, were cited as justification for Ojwang’s arrest. However, hours after being detained, Ojwang died in police custody, prompting outrage nationwide.
DCI Boss Names New Prime Suspect
Meanwhile, a new twist emerged in the Senate on Wednesday. DCI Director Mohammed Amin declared Samson Taalam, the Central Police Station OCS, as the prime suspect in Ojwang’s murder.
“Before booking, the report office called the OCS, who declined to book the suspect. From the totality of things, Taalam should be treated as the prime suspect,” Amin said.
Police Apology Follows Forensic Findings
Kanja has since apologised for the initial police narrative that Ojwang died by suicide. Autopsy findings confirmed death by head injuries, neck compression, and multiple trauma, ruling out self-harm.
Fresh Legal Storm for DIG Lagat as Activists Move to Privately Prosecute Him Over Ojwang’s Death
