The National Police Service (NPS) has swiftly moved to shut down reports suggesting that Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat has resumed duty, labeling a widely circulated media card as “FAKE!”, fueling an already intense national debate.
The digital poster, which bore the branding of a local news outlet, quoted NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga as saying he was unaware of Lagat’s reported return. But NPS, in a bold and public X (formerly Twitter) post, vehemently distanced itself from the statement, stamping it with a fiery “Disclaimer… FAKE!!!”
This online backlash emerged only hours after Daily Nation splashed a bombshell front-page headline claiming that DIG Lagat was set to resume his post. The publication quoted Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, stating:
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“I hope to see him back at the office today because he has been cleared of all investigations.”
The news, while stirring national curiosity, came without direct confirmation from Lagat himself, as attempts to reach him proved futile. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) also declined to issue a statement, citing an ongoing investigation.
Lagat had vacated his office over 18 days ago amid a storm of controversy and public outcry following the death of teacher-turned-blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody. Ojwang had been transferred from Homa Bay’s Mawego Police Station to Nairobi’s Central Police Station, allegedly to answer charges linked to online posts critical of the DIG.
Ojwang’s mysterious death sparked fury across the country, with thousands demanding accountability and justice. Many protesters alleged that Lagat himself had ordered the brutal execution of the outspoken teacher, a claim that fueled relentless pressure for him to resign and prompted IPOA’s involvement.
In a twist to the saga, unnamed sources close to the investigation told Daily Nation that IPOA had found no evidence directly implicating DIG Lagat in Ojwang’s death, effectively clearing him of suspicion. However, this development has not cooled public sentiment, especially with official clarity still lacking.
Meanwhile, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has moved forward, approving murder charges against three police officers, including Central Police Station’s OCS, Samson Talaam, and two constables, James Mukhwana and Peter Kimani.
The decision marks a rare but significant step in holding officers accountable for alleged extrajudicial killings in Kenya.
As the nation watches with a mix of hope and skepticism, the credibility crisis within the police force continues to deepen.
The swirling claims, counterclaims, and official silence surrounding DIG Lagat’s status only add fuel to the fire, leaving many Kenyans wondering: Where does the truth lie, and who will take responsibility?
