The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has disclosed details surrounding the arrest of blogger Albert Ojwang, whose subsequent death has sparked public outcry and drawn the attention of the Kenyan Senate.
Speaking before the Senate on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, IPOA Vice Chairperson Ann Wanjiku revealed that five police officers were involved in apprehending Ojwang in Homa Bay on June 7.
The Senate had convened to deliberate on the circumstances leading to the blogger’s death, prompting IPOA to provide a detailed account of the events.
According to Wanjiku, the operation began on the morning of Saturday, June 7, when a team of five officers—identified as Sergeants Sigei and Wesley Kipkorir Kirui, and Police Constables Dennis Kinyoni, Milton Mwanze, and Boniface Rapudo—set out for Homa Bay.
The officers first reported to Mawego Police Station to formally identify themselves before proceeding to Ojwang’s residence in Lida Centre.
“On the 7th of June at around 8 a.m., the team arrived in Homa Bay County and arrested the deceased at approximately 2:30 p.m.,” Wanjiku told the Senate. The officers then took Ojwang to Mawego Police Station, where he was processed for transfer to Nairobi.
The circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s arrest and his death remain under intense scrutiny, with IPOA’s investigation aiming to uncover whether proper protocols were followed.
Wanjiku’s testimony highlighted that the officers’ actions were part of a coordinated effort, but she did not elaborate on the reasons for Ojwang’s arrest or the events that transpired after his detention.
The blogger and teacher’s death has raised concerns about police conduct, with activists and citizens calling for transparency and accountability.
The Senate session underscored the growing tension between law enforcement and public oversight, as lawmakers pressed for clarity on the case.
IPOA, tasked with investigating allegations of police misconduct, is expected to release a comprehensive report following its inquiry. For now, the identities of the five officers involved have been made public, and their actions are under review.
IPOA Vice Chairperson Ann Wanjiku: Honourable Members, these are the officers who arrested Mr Albert Ojwang in Homa Bay County. #SenateLive pic.twitter.com/oNAcuiPuQG
— Senate of Kenya (@Senate_KE) June 11, 2025
