Albert Ojwang’, a social media influencer and teacher, was arrested on June 8, 2025, in Migori town while visiting family. Authorities accused him of publishing false information online, a charge that sparked debate and concern. His father, Meshack Ojwang’, said officers claimed he had insulted a senior official on X (formerly Twitter).
At the time of his arrest, Ojwang’ did not know the exact charges. In a leaked phone call, he expressed confusion and fear. “Sielewi man, hata hawajanieleza man” (I don’t understand, man. They haven’t even told me anything), he said. His anxiety was clear as he asked his friend, “Will I be safe in here?” The recording has since haunted many listeners.
After his arrest, officers transported Ojwang’ hundreds of kilometers to Nairobi’s Central Police Station. Hours later, they found him with severe head injuries. Authorities claimed he had hit his head against the cell wall, causing fatal injuries. However, his father and many Kenyans rejected this explanation. They demanded an independent investigation into the events leading to his death.
Ojwang’s father, devastated by the loss of his only child, recounted the moments before the arrest. “They picked him up and put him in handcuffs,” he said. “I asked why they were taking him. They said he had insulted their boss on X and told me to follow them to the station if I wanted answers.”
Following public outrage, Inspector General Douglas Kanja suspended all officers on duty at the time, including the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) and other personnel. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) launched a probe to uncover the truth behind Ojwang’s death.
