The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has dismissed reports suggesting that Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has been absolved in the ongoing probe into the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang’, who died in police custody last month.

In a statement released on Monday, July 14, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan termed the reports as misleading and clarified that the investigation into Ojwang’s death remains active.

“Claims that the Authority has cleared Mr. Lagat are inaccurate. IPOA commenced investigations immediately after the incident and several suspects have already been charged in court,” Hassan said.

He emphasized that if the probe finds sufficient grounds to implicate Lagat, the Authority will recommend appropriate action in line with its mandate.

The remarks come amid growing public pressure for accountability in the case, which has reignited concerns over police brutality and impunity in Kenya.

Ojwang’ died on June 8 while being held at the Nairobi Central Police Station. He had been arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). His death sparked national outrage, protests, and calls for justice from civil society and the public.

In response to public outcry, Lagat voluntarily stepped aside from office on June 16, though questions remain over the legality of that decision.

On Sunday, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja told the Daily Nation that Lagat had been cleared by all investigative bodies and could return to office as early as Monday.

However, as of Monday morning, uncertainty lingered over whether Lagat had officially resumed duties at Vigilance House. In his absence, Principal Deputy Patrick Tito has been handling the DIG’s responsibilities.

In a related court matter, the High Court on Monday declined to issue conservatory orders stopping Lagat from returning to office. Justice Chacha Mwita instead directed all parties in the case including Lagat, the Attorney General, and the National Police Service Commission to file responses by July 23, in a suit filed by UK-based activist Eliud Matindi.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has approved murder charges against six individuals linked to Ojwang’s death. They include three police officers Samson Kiprotich Talaam, James Mukhwana, and Peter Kimani as well as three civilians: John Ngige Gitau, Gin Ammitou Abwao, and Brian Mwaniki Njue.

IPOA has reiterated its commitment to impartial investigations and due process as the high-profile case continues to unfold.