LSK demands accountability after death of Simon Warui in Mombasa police cell sparks fresh public outrage

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has demanded answers over the death of Simon Warui, who was found dead in a police cell at Mombasa Central Police Station under unclear circumstances.

In a statement on Monday, LSK President Faith Odhiambo said the society has appointed an advocate to represent Warui’s family and monitor investigations. She stressed that those responsible must be held accountable and vowed that the matter would not be swept under the carpet.

Warui reportedly went missing on Sunday morning before his body was later discovered inside a cell, raising serious questions about police accountability.

Odhiambo added that the society is working with the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and civil society groups to push for an independent, transparent, and speedy inquiry. She also lauded the LSK Mombasa branch for standing with Warui’s family in the pursuit of justice.

The incident has revived national debate on deaths in police custody, which remain an alarming concern despite repeated government pledges to address the issue.

Similar recent cases include the deaths of Raymond Nachibati in Kakamega, Albert Ojwang in Nairobi, and Calvince Omondi in Homa Bay—all of whom died while in police custody under contested circumstances.