NAIROBI, Kenya – Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Kipkoech Lagat has tendered his resignation, ending weeks of mounting pressure following his alleged involvement in the mysterious death of Albert Ojwang.
The resignation comes as investigations continue into Ojwang’s unexplained murder, a case that has thrust Kenya’s police leadership into unprecedented scrutiny.
Lagat’s name became central to the probe after he filed a defamation complaint that led to Ojwang’s arrest – the last known contact the deceased had with authorities before his death.
Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja revealed to senators on June 11 that the investigation began when online posts accused DIG Lagat of systematic corruption within the National Police Service.
The allegations claimed Lagat had strategically positioned trusted officers in key positions to control revenue streams and intelligence flow.
“The post claimed that he was involved in corruption within the NPS. Specifically, the published information alleged that Lagat has strategically placed his most trusted officers in charge of the DCI books desk and traffic shifts,” Kanja told the Senate committee.
Additional social media posts depicted Lagat alongside senior traffic commander Joseph Chirchir, with claims that the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission was investigating the deputy inspector general over the alleged purchase of a $2.6 million home in Dubai.
The controversy sparked widespread public anger, with Kenyans taking to the streets last Tuesday demanding Lagat’s immediate resignation.
The protests reflected growing frustration with police accountability and transparency in high-profile cases.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga intensified pressure on Monday, calling for Lagat’s arrest and prosecution. Maraga argued that security bosses implicated in Ojwang’s death should have stepped aside immediately.
“There is prima facie evidence that Mr. Eliud Lagat – directly or indirectly, by himself or through his accomplices – is implicated in the illegal arrest, torture, strangulation and eventual murder of the late Albert Ojwang,” Maraga stated in his public remarks.
The investigation has already resulted in several arrests. Central Police Station Officer Commanding Station Samson Talaam and Police Constable James Mukhwana are currently in custody in connection with the case.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has also detained three civilians – Gin Ammitou Abwao, Collins Karani Ireri, and Brian Mwaniki Njue – who were allegedly used by police officers to torture Ojwang while he was held at Central Police Station.
