Ruto Calls on Police to Fully Cooperate in Probe into Albert Ojwang’s Death

President Ruto Breaks Silence on Albert Ojwang’s Death, Orders Full Police Cooperation

In a statement issued by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, Ruto instructed the National Police Service (NPS) to work closely with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to establish the circumstances surrounding Ojwang’s death.

“I therefore call on the National Police Service to fully cooperate with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and to take every necessary measure to facilitate a swift, transparent, and credible investigation into the death of Ojwang,” the President stated.

“As we mourn his passing, let us patiently but vigilantly follow the progress of the investigations without making premature judgements or drawing conclusions that could compromise the process and its outcome,” he added.

Murkomen, Kanja, Amin Appear Before Senate
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, and DCI Director Mohammed Amin were present at the Senate on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. Photo: Kipchumba Murkomen

Ruto further emphasized that he expects investigating agencies to provide a full report detailing the events that led to Ojwang’s death and the measures taken in response.

“I fully expect that the truth about what happened to Ojwang will be established in due course, and that justice will be served,” he said.

The President also issued a stern warning to the police, holding them accountable for failing to ensure the safety of Ojwang while in their custody. He underscored that it is the police’s responsibility to protect individuals once detained.

“It must be borne in mind by every member of the National Police Service that whenever they take a person into custody, they assume a tremendous responsibility for that individual’s safety, security, and well-being, and must make every effort to discharge this duty conscientiously and without fail,” Ruto emphasized.

Reflecting on his previous decision to grant financial and institutional autonomy to the police service, Ruto reiterated that the move was intended to foster professionalism, efficiency, and accountability.

He urged the police to rise to the occasion by addressing crime decisively while also eliminating misconduct and unprofessional behavior within their ranks.

In addition, Ruto distanced himself from any direct involvement in operations that may have led to Ojwang’s arrest and subsequent death. He expressed his shock over the unfolding details.

“This tragic occurrence, at the hands of the police, is heartbreaking and unacceptable. I strongly condemn the actions and omissions, including any negligence or outright criminality, that may have contributed to his untimely death,” he stated.

The case took a dramatic turn after IPOA disclosed that key CCTV footage from the Central Police Station—specifically from the OCS’s office—had been tampered with. This revelation was made by IPOA Deputy Chairperson Ann Wanjiku during her appearance before the Senate.

Kanja and DCI Boss Amin Address Senate
Inspector General Douglas Kanja and DCI Director Mohammed Amin attended the Senate plenary session on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.