All eyes are now on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), as the investigation into the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang' in police custody now falls squarely under its jurisdiction, placing the burden of truth, accountability, and justice on its shoulders.
Speaking during a press conference at Central Police Station in Nairobi, Inspector General of Police (IG) Douglas Kanja confirmed that IPOA had officially taken over the investigation, as mandated by law.
"Given the circumstances surrounding the incident, it was necessary to investigate the death in accordance with the regulations governing deaths in police custody and in line with statutory requirements. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) was duly notified to commence investigations." IG Kanja stated.
Following the incident, IG Kanja ordered the interdiction of the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Central Police Station, the Duty Officer on shift the night of the incident, the Cell Sentry, officers stationed at the Report Office, and any other personnel found to have been involved, pending investigations.
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Also speaking at the same event, IPOA Chairman Ahmed Issack Hassan said the authority moved swiftly to investigate the sudden death of Ojwang', who reportedly died while in custody.
Without mincing words, Hassan warned officers replacing the interdicted personnel to fully cooperate with investigators and avoid interfering with the process.
According to Hassan, IPOA was officially notified of Ojwang's death by IG Kanja on Sunday night.
"After the IG notified me on Sunday night, we immediately commenced investigations. We dispatched our team to Central Police Station that same night. They remain on the ground as of Monday and have already visited the scene," Hassan said.
Given the seriousness of the case, Hassan confirmed he personally visited the station on Sunday night, accompanied by the IG.
Inspector General Kanja reaffirmed IPOA's legal authority to lead the investigation, noting that the body is mandated by law to independently oversee police conduct.
Offering a brief chronology of events, IG Kanja said Ojwang' was arrested in Homa Bay County by DCI detectives on Friday, June 6, 2025, on charges of false publication.
He was subsequently transported to Nairobi, questioned at the DCI headquarters on Saturday, and later booked at Central Police Station under Occurrence Book Number 136/7/6/2025 at 21:35 hours.
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During a routine cell inspection, Ojwang' was found unconscious and rushed to Mbagathi Hospital for treatment, as recorded under OB Number 9/08/06/2025 at 01:39 hours. He was declared dead upon arrival.
In response, and in line with regulations governing deaths in police custody, IPOA was formally notified to commence investigations.
"We will provide all necessary support to independent investigative agencies to ensure this case is resolved. Further updates will be issued as investigations progress," he stated.
On Monday morning, an IPOA technical team led by Hassan and Commissioner Dr. Micah Onyiego conducted a fact-finding mission at Central Police Station.
Additionally, IPOA has dispatched a Rapid Response Team to the City Mortuary, where Ojwang's post-mortem examination is scheduled to take place.
