Human rights groups demand DIG Lagat steps aside in Albert Ojwang death probe

Pressure is mounting on DIG Eliud Lagat over the death of Albert Ojwang in police custody. [Photos/Courtesy]

Pressure continues to mount on Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Eliud Lagat to step aside following the death of influencer Albert Ojwang in police custody.

Human rights groups have now joined the growing number of voices calling for Mr Lagat's resignation, raising concerns over the possibility of interference with investigations into the gruesome murder of Albert should he remain in office.

In a press conference held in Nairobi on Wednesday, lobby groups under the Police Reforms Working Group-Kenya (PRWG-K) umbrella stated that the continued stay in office by the Kenya Police boss points to foul play and a possible scheme to compromise the investigation process.

They also called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to immediately summon Mr Lagat, the OCS of Nairobi Central Police Station Mr Talam, and all other officers involved in the arrest, booking, and detention of Albert.

"Mr Lagat must, in the public interest, allow for an impartial and speedy investigation. An investigation into the death of Albert Ojwang cannot be impartial, or be seen to be impartial, while the subject of the complaint is at the helm of the investigation," said Wangeci Grace, PRWG-K convener.

Ojwang was arrested on Friday afternoon from their home in Kakoth Village, Kasipul Kabondo Constituency in Homa Bay County, by individuals who have been identified as police officers.

His father, Meshack Opiyo, later discovered his lifeless body at the Nairobi Funeral Home, 36 hours after his arrest.

On Wednesday, the 27 lobby groups demanded that the National Police Service reveal the circumstances leading to the arrest and transportation of the 31-year-old teacher from Homa Bay to Nairobi.

They accused the police of contravening statutory requirements on arrests, which stipulate that all offences be tried in the nearest court unless transferred to a different jurisdiction by court order.

"The NPS must account for Albert's whereabouts for the entire period preceding his booking into the Central Police Station," said Davis Malombe, Executive Director of the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC).