Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat Cleared In Albert Ojwang Death
Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Eliud Lagat is expected to return to office today after being officially cleared of any involvement in the controversial death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody last month.
Lagat had voluntarily stepped aside from his duties on June 16 amidst mounting public pressure, delegating his responsibilities to his principal deputy, Patrick Tito. This move allowed the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to launch an independent investigation into the incident without perceived interference.
Confirming Lagat’s imminent return, a source within the police service told the Nation on Sunday, “I hope to see him back at the office today because he has been cleared by all the investigations.”
Lagat’s return follows more than two weeks of intense public scrutiny and legal uncertainty surrounding the death of Albert Ojwang. Ojwang was arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and subsequently died at the Nairobi Central Police Station on June 8, 2025.
The circumstances of his death while in police custody had drawn significant public outcry and calls for transparency and accountability, leading to IPOA’s intervention and the DIG’s temporary stepping aside. His clearance by the investigative bodies paves the way for his reinstatement to his senior position
