NAIROBI, Kenya – Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss Mohamed Amin has dismissed allegations of interference by Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat in the arrest of Albert Ojwang, the digital influencer who died in police custody under controversial circumstances.
Appearing before the Senate on Wednesday, Amin clarified that Lagat acted within his rights as a citizen and public servant by filing a formal complaint, which the DCI responded to in accordance with standard procedure.
“As the investigative arm of the Kenya Police Service, we acted upon the complaint. There was nothing extraordinary about it,” said Amin. “The complaint by Lagat followed due process, and there was no preferential treatment.”
Amin explained that Ojwang, who was arrested in Homa Bay over an alleged cybercrime offence, was transferred to Nairobi because the case falls under national jurisdiction.
“Cybercrime is a national offence. The law allows us to prosecute such cases anywhere in the country,” he told senators. “In this case, we believe the offence was committed in Nairobi, though the arrest happened in Homa Bay.”
He also noted that DCI officers are not required to seek a court order to transfer a suspect across jurisdictions.
No CCTV Footage from Arrest Station
Addressing public concerns about missing surveillance footage, Amin said there are no CCTV systems at Magwengo Police Station where Ojwang was initially held.
“It is a recently upgraded station. We currently do not have CCTV cameras installed there,” he said.
DCI Defends Officers’ Conduct
Amin defended the conduct of his officers during Ojwang’s transfer from Homa Bay to Nairobi.
He said the deceased was transported in an official government vehicle—a Subaru Forester with registration number GKC 519P—and treated respectfully.
“While in Narok, Ojwang requested refreshments, and the officers provided him with water, soda, and biscuits,” he said, adding that vehicle movements were verified via the GPRS tracking system.
‘Let Justice Be Done’
Amin reiterated that any officer found culpable in Ojwang’s death must be held accountable.
“If investigations show that any officers were involved in the killing of Ojwang, they should be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.
Ojwang’s death has triggered a national outcry, with human rights groups and foreign missions—including the US Embassy—calling for a swift and transparent investigation.
IPOA is currently probing the incident, while an autopsy revealed the 30-year-old suffered injuries consistent with assault, contradicting police claims of self-inflicted harm.
