Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Kipkoech Lagat, has officially stepped aside as investigations continue into the controversial death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang’. The move comes amid mounting pressure over claims that Ojwang’s arrest and subsequent death were linked to a defamation complaint allegedly initiated by Lagat himself.
In a public statement issued on Monday, Lagat confirmed his decision, stating it was made in full awareness of the public scrutiny surrounding his office. “I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General, Kenya Police Service pending completion of investigations,” said Lagat. He noted that his deputy will assume his responsibilities during the probe.
Lagat also assured the public of his full cooperation with investigators and offered his condolences to Ojwang’s family. He stated, “I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident.”
Ojwang’s death has sparked widespread outrage across the country, triggering protests and calls for accountability from top-level police leadership. The deceased blogger had published posts online accusing Lagat of corruption, particularly in the allocation of positions within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and traffic units, departments believed to be linked to revenue control and intelligence gathering.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, during a Senate appearance on June 11, confirmed that investigations began after viral social media posts accused Lagat of corruption. One of the allegations even linked him to the purchase of a multimillion-dollar property in Dubai and labeled him a “mafia police” figure.
The national outcry intensified following comments by former Chief Justice David Maraga, who called for Lagat’s immediate arrest and prosecution. Maraga stated that there was “prima facie” evidence implicating Lagat in Ojwang’s illegal arrest, torture, and murder, either directly or through proxies.
By Lucky Anyanje