A Kenyan police officer has been arrested in connection with the death of 31-year-old Albert Ojwang, who died in custody last weekend after being detained for criticizing a senior officer online.
Initially, police claimed Ojwang died after repeatedly banging his head against a wall. However, a government pathologist later stated the injuries were “unlikely to be self-inflicted,” contradicting the official account.
The incident has triggered public outrage and protests in Nairobi, reigniting concerns over long-standing allegations of police brutality in Kenya. Protesters have also called for the resignation of Deputy Inspector-General Eliud Kipkoech Lagat, whom Ojwang had targeted in his online posts.
Police spokesperson Michael Muchiri confirmed to AFP on Friday that a constable has been arrested in relation to Ojwang’s death. He declined to provide further information, directing inquiries to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), which is leading the investigation.
Earlier in the week, five officers involved in the case were suspended to allow for a transparent inquiry. IPOA has yet to comment publicly.
President William Ruto has ordered a swift investigation and assured the public that his administration will “protect citizens from rogue police officers.”
Ojwang’s death comes amid a troubling trend: IPOA recently reported that 20 people have died in police custody in just the past four months. Rights groups also point to a surge in illegal detentions and disappearances following last year’s anti-government protests, many involving individuals critical of the government or President Ruto.
