IPOA Hits Back at Claims Clearing DIG Lagat in Blogger Ojwang’s Murder
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has dismissed viral reports claiming that Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat has been cleared in the brutal murder of blogger Albert Ojwang.
On Tuesday, June 24, social media buzzed with posts alleging IPOA had found Lagat innocent. The agency, however, swiftly responded, setting the record straight.
“IPOA has not issued any decision indicating that DIG Lagat has no case to answer,” the authority stated.
Claims Spark Public Outrage
Lagat has been a central figure in the ongoing probe. The slain blogger, who died on June 8, had previously been reported to police by none other than DIG Lagat. The complaint, filed on grounds of alleged defamation, led to Ojwang’s detention.
Shockingly, one of the officers already charged with Ojwang’s death claimed they were acting on orders from above.
“We were instructed from the top,” stated one officer, pointing fingers directly at the DIG.
Lagat Grilled by IPOA Investigators
Following mounting pressure, IPOA summoned Lagat for questioning on Wednesday, June 18. Chairperson Issack Hassan confirmed that the agency had “sufficient grounds” to question the senior officer.
But when a local newspaper later reported that Lagat had been grilled by IPOA’s chairperson and CEO, the agency shot down the claims.
“The interrogation was done by our technical investigation team, not the leadership,” IPOA clarified.
DIG Lagat Denies Involvement
Despite the noise, Lagat has stood his ground. Through his legal team, he insisted he was simply a complainant seeking justice over defamation.
“My client did not order or suggest any harm befall the deceased,” the lawyers emphasized.
“He only learned of the blogger’s death the following day and was shocked.”
Lagat has since stepped aside from his role to allow for independent investigations.
DPP Moves Swiftly Against Accused Officers
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has pressed murder charges against six officers, including Central Police Station OCS Chief Inspector Samson Talaam, Constables James Mukhwana and Peter Kimani.
The court was told:
“Talaam was the OCS, Mukhwana was on day cell duty, and Kimani manned the cells at night.”
All six pleaded not guilty. However, the DPP opposed their release on bail, citing concerns over interference and the gravity of the offence.
As the public demands justice for Ojwang, IPOA insists that its investigation is far from over.
“No one is above the law,” the authority assured.
ALSO READ:OCS Talaam, Two Others Deny Killing Blogger Albert Ojwang Amid Public Fury
IPOA Hits Back at Claims Clearing DIG Lagat in Blogger Ojwang’s Murder
