Nairobi’s Central Business District turned chaotic as police lobbed teargas to disperse protesters demanding the resignation of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat over the death of Albert Ojwang’, a young Kenyan influencer who died under controversial circumstances in police custody.
Highlights:
- Protesters marched through Nairobi CBD demanding justice for Albert Ojwang’
- Police used teargas to disperse crowds near Parliament, City Hall, and Harambee Avenue
- Ojwang’ died in police custody at Central Police Station on June 8
- Protesters blame DIG Lagat and want top police reforms
- Investigations ongoing; DIG Lagat has temporarily stepped aside
Hundreds of demonstrators—mostly youth—took to the streets of Nairobi carrying placards, chanting slogans, and waving Kenyan flags. Their central demand: that DIG Eliud Lagat resign, taking responsibility for the systemic police abuse that led to Ojwang’s death.
The protest spread across City Hall, Parliament Road, and Jeevanjee Gardens, before being forcefully dispersed by police using tear gas. Some vehicles were torched and businesses temporarily shut down as the situation grew tense.
Ojwang’, a digital content creator and activist, died on June 8, 2025, at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. He had gone to report a defamation complaint and ended up in police custody. His family was told he slipped and hit his head, but an independent autopsy revealed signs of trauma—blunt force injuries, neck compression, and bruises.
The case sparked national outrage, likened by many to past police brutality incidents involving youth.
Although DIG Lagat has denied direct involvement, public pressure has forced him to temporarily step aside. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since launched a formal investigation. Several officers linked to Ojwang’s detention have already been suspended or arrested.
The demonstrators argue that unless top leadership is held accountable, true justice cannot be served.
As tear gas clears and investigations unfold, Kenyans are left asking: will this be another case swept under the rug—or a turning point in the fight against police brutality?
