Several police officers stationed at Nairobi’s Central Police Station have been interdicted following the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang while in custody, the National Police Service (NPS) has announced.
Close friends of Albert say he was arrested on Saturday over X posts allegedly linked to Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Langat.
The interdictions, which take effect immediately, target officers who were on duty on the night Ojwang died, including the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), the duty officer, the cell sentry, and officers at the report office.
In a press statement, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said that any other officer found to have been involved or present that night will also face disciplinary action.
Nyaga said the interdictions were ordered by the Inspector General of Police to allow for a thorough and impartial investigation by the IPOA.
Ojwang died under unclear circumstances while detained at Nairobi Central Police Station, prompting a public outcry and an ongoing investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
“The NPS remains committed to upholding the rule of law, human rights, transparency, and accountability within the Service,” the statement read.
Albert’s death has raised questions about the treatment of detainees in police custody, with civil rights groups calling for transparency and justice.
The Law Society of Kenya President, Faith Odhiambo has demanded a swift and thorough investigation into Ojwang’s death, insisting that those responsible be held accountable.
She emphasized that, just as Kenyan citizens are expected to obey the law, law enforcement officers must also uphold legal standards fairly
“We demand answers, the truth, and that those responsible for this death be held personally accountable,” Odhiambo added.
Amnesty International also condemned Ojwang’s death, stressing that no Kenyan should die while in police custody, where their safety is the state’s responsibility.
They emphasized that the police have both a legal and ethical obligation to protect the welfare of all individuals in their custody.
“This tragic case highlights the critical need for transparency, accountability, and comprehensive reforms within our law enforcement agencies,” the human rights organization noted.