Amnesty Kenya demands urgent probe into Albert Ojwang’s death
Amnesty Kenya has called for an urgent, thorough, and independent investigation into the death of Albert Ojwang, an influencer who died while in police custody at the Central Police Station in Nairobi.
In an official letter dated Sunday, June 8, 2025, Amnesty expressed deep concern over the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death, which occurred just hours after he was picked up by officers from Homa Bay County and transported to Nairobi.
The human rights organisation called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) to launch a prompt and independent inquiry into the incident. It further insisted that the findings of the investigation be made public and that any officers found culpable be held accountable under the law.
It further noted that police officers have both a legal and moral obligation to guarantee the safety and well-being of all individuals in their custody.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Albert Ojwang, who died last night at the Central Police Station in Nairobi. No Kenyan should lose their life in police custody, and those entrusted with their protection,” the Amnesty statement reads in part.
“Police officers have a legal and moral duty to ensure the safety and well-being of every person under their custody. The death of Albert Ojwang while in detention raises serious questions that must be urgently, thoroughly, and independently investigated by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).”
The organisation also said the findings of the investigations must be made public and that any officers found responsible should be held fully accountable in accordance with the law, adding that the incident was yet another stark reminder of the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and far-reaching reforms within Kenya’s law enforcement institutions.
“The findings of these investigations must be made public, and any officers found responsible must be held fully accountable in accordance with the law. This incident is yet another stark reminder of the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and far-reaching reforms within our law enforcement institutions,” the Amnesty statement reads in part.
Ojwang’s death
Ojwang’s death has sparked public outcry online, with many Kenyans demanding justice and accountability. Family members say he was arrested under unclear circumstances on Saturday, June 7, and was later found dead in Nairobi the following day.
Police on Ojwang’s death
According to the statement, released on Sunday, June 8, 2025, National Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga confirmed that Ojwang was lawfully arrested by DCI detectives for false publication and placed in custody, adding that while in custody, he sustained head injuries after hitting his head against the cell wall, the statement further explained. Police officers on duty promptly noticed the injuries and rushed him to Mbagathi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
“The National Police Service (NPS) has noted reports circulating on social media regarding the death of a suspect allegedly in custody at Central Police Station, Nairobi,” the statement read in part.
“In line with statutory requirements, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation into the incident. NPS reaffirms its commitment to upholding constitutional standards of human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
