IPOA denies exonerating DIG Lagat

Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police Eliud Lagat. [Sammy Omingo, Standard]

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has denied exonerating Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police Eliud Lagat in the murder of Albert Ojwang' probe.

Through its chairperson Issack Hassan, IPOA clarified that the investigations are still ongoing while terming as misleading a story in one of the local dailies alleging that the Authority has let Lagat off the hook.

"IPOA’s investigation is still active and therefore the reports that the Authority has exonerated Mr. Lagat are misleading," Issac stated.

At the same time, IPOA has vowed to make appropriate recommendations to have the DIG held to account if he is found culpable.

IPOA launched investigations into the late Ojwang’s death in police custody on 8th June, 2025. Preliminary investigations identified some suspects who have since been arraigned in court. 

This development comes even as reports confirm that Lagat has resumed office as of Monday, July 14, after the High Court declined to issue conservatory orders barring him from work.

UK-based activist Eliud Matindi, had gone to court seeking orders to bar Lagat from returning to office or performing any functions of the office, pending the hearing and determination of a constitutional petition.

Instead, Justice Chacha Mwita directed Lagat, the Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) to file their responses by July 23, after which the court will issue further directions.