Albert Ojwang, who died while in custody at Central Police Station, did not sustain his injuries by hitting himself against a wall, as initially reported by the police. Instead, a government pathologist has confirmed that Ojwang suffered multiple injuries consistent with assault.
The autopsy was conducted on Tuesday by government pathologist Dr. Bernard Midia, with the assistance of the family’s representative, Mutuma Zambezi. Speaking to the media, Dr. Midia explained that the pattern of injuries observed on Ojwang’s body does not support the police’s claim that he injured himself.
According to Dr. Midia, injuries caused by someone banging their head on a wall usually have a specific pattern, often showing concentrated bleeding at the front of the head. However, Ojwang had bleeding and bruises spread across his scalp, face, sides, and back of the head, indicating that he was struck multiple times.
Dr. Midia added that the trauma was not limited to the head. Injuries were also found on the upper limbs and torso, further supporting the conclusion that Ojwang was physically assaulted. “When you look at the distribution of the injuries, it’s highly unlikely they were self-inflicted,” he stated during a press briefing.
These findings directly contradict the earlier police report, which claimed that Ojwang had repeatedly hit his head against a cell wall. The autopsy now points to a different reality, one of violence and possible abuse while in police custody.
Ojwang’s case has raised serious questions about police accountability and the treatment of detainees. His family and supporters are now calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances of his death, demanding justice and answers for what appears to be a case of custodial violence.
The post-mortem findings are expected to influence the ongoing inquiries and could lead to legal action or disciplinary measures against officers involved in the incident.
By Yockshard Enyendi