Kenya’s Deputy Police Chief Steps Aside Temporarily Amid Investigation

Kenya’s Deputy Police Chief Eliud Lagat has stepped aside temporarily while investigations are conducted into the death of a detained blogger, Albert Ojwang. The situation has led to public protests and the arrest of several police personnel connected to the case.

In a significant development, Kenya’s Deputy Police Chief Eliud Lagat announced on Monday that he has decided to temporarily step down from his role. This decision comes amidst ongoing investigations into the tragic death of a detained blogger while in police custody. Lagat stated, “I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General … pending completion of investigations,” emphasizing the need for accountability in the police’s actions.

The decision follows a wave of protests that erupted in Nairobi last week, sparked by the death of Albert Ojwang. Ojwang, a 31-year-old blogger and schoolteacher, had reportedly been critical of police conduct before his detention. His death has raised serious concerns regarding police accountability and human rights in Kenya, prompting citizens to demand justice.

In connection with the investigation, authorities have taken a robust approach, arresting two senior police officers along with a technician responsible for dismantling the CCTV cameras at the police station. These arrests seem part of a larger effort to gather evidence and ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances of Ojwang’s death.

In summary, Deputy Police Chief Eliud Lagat’s temporary resignation underscores the seriousness surrounding the investigation into the death of Albert Ojwang while in police custody. The protests that followed reflect widespread public demand for accountability, and the arrests made signal a decisive effort by authorities to address the concerns raised by this unfortunate incident.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com