National Police Service Responds Firmly to Claims That DIG Eliud Lagat Has Resumed Duty
In a swift and fiery rebuttal, the National Police Service (NPS) has disowned a viral news card circulating on social media that alleged its spokesperson, Muchiri Nyaga, confirmed being unaware of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat’s return to duty.
In an official statement released via X (formerly Twitter), the NPS dismissed the quote as fabricated and misleading.
“Disclaimer… FAKE!!!”
“This quote has not come from the police spokesperson. Kindly disregard and seek clarification from verified sources,” read the post.
This disclaimer came hot on the heels of a front-page story by the Daily Nation dated July 14, which confidently claimed DIG Lagat would resume duties following clearance from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
“Having vacated the office over 18 days ago to allow investigations by IPOA, Mr. Lagat is expected to resume duty today,” read a section of the article.
The paper cited Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who allegedly stated:
“I hope to see him back at the office today because he has been cleared of all investigations.”
However, when reached for confirmation, Lagat himself was unreachable. IPOA, too, declined to comment, stating that the investigation was still ongoing.
Despite the radio silence from Lagat and IPOA, a source close to the probe reportedly revealed to Nation that:
“IPOA did not find any evidence directly linking DIG Lagat to the death of Albert Ojwang.”
This twist comes as the nation continues to grapple with the fallout from the tragic death of teacher-turned-blogger Albert Ojwang. The deceased died under controversial circumstances while in police custody at Central Police Station in Nairobi, shortly after being transferred from Mawego Police Station in Homa Bay. He had been arrested over alleged defamation of the DIG on social media.
Ojwang’s death triggered massive public anger, street protests, and calls for justice. The public outcry intensified after inconsistencies emerged in the police narrative surrounding his death. Many Kenyans alleged that Lagat had a hand in the incident.
Following pressure, Lagat voluntarily stepped aside to allow for independent investigations.
“He wanted to allow a transparent process without any interference,” said an NPS insider.
Currently, the Director of Public Prosecutions has approved murder charges against three officers: Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam, and constables James Mukhwana and Peter Kimani. This decision has offered a measure of hope to many demanding accountability.
Still, the confusion over Lagat’s status remains. While mainstream media reported his return, the NPS has neither confirmed nor denied it outright—only rejecting the misquoted media card.
“Fake news has no place in a nation seeking justice. Let’s all verify before sharing,” urged the NPS in another follow-up post.
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National Police Service Responds Firmly to Claims That DIG Eliud Lagat Has Resumed Duty
