A police station in western Kenya was set ablaze on Thursday following massive protests.1 Thousands marched with the coffin of a teacher who died in police custody last month. This explosive demonstration highlights escalating tensions over police brutality.
The deceased, Albert Ojwang, 31, was found dead in a Nairobi police cell. He had been arrested in Homa Bay County, sparking widespread rallies. His death ignited public fury against alleged police misconduct.
Videos online, though unverified, show a large crowd carrying Ojwang’s coffin.2 This powerful procession arrived in Homa Bay for his burial scheduled on Friday. The community sought justice for his untimely demise.
During the procession, protesters reportedly stormed and then torched Mawego police station.3 Ojwang had been briefly detained there before his transfer to Nairobi. This act underscores deep-seated public anger.
Police initially claimed Ojwang had taken his own life. However, government pathologists later confirmed he had been killed. This stark contradiction fueled demands for accountability.
Ojwang’s arrest stemmed from alleged online criticism of Deputy Police Chief Eliud Lagat.4 Lagat “stepped aside” during the investigation into Ojwang’s death.5 Protesters insist on his full resignation and criminal charges.
Six individuals, including three police officers, now face charges in Ojwang’s murder. This action reflects some progress toward justice. Yet, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority reported 18 custody deaths in the past four months.