A police officer based at Nairobi’s Central Police Station has been arrested in connection with the death of popular digital influencer Albert Omondi Ojwang’, whose demise has sparked national outrage and renewed calls for police accountability.
The officer, identified as Police Constable James Mukhwana (Service No. 260950), was taken into custody earlier today by detectives from the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) in collaboration with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
Mukhwana is currently being held at Capitol Hill Police Station and is expected to be formally charged with murder, contrary to Section 203 as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code.
According to an official police dispatch (Ref:KPS/DIG/NRB/KIL/CAP/ADM/38/VOL.1/02), the arrest follows preliminary investigations implicating the officer in the fatal incident involving Ojwang’, a well-known youth activist and outspoken voice on social media platforms.
Ojwang’, known for his outspoken views on police accountability and youth rights, was reportedly killed in the hands of police on Saturday night after being arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) at his rural home in Homa Bay County.
He was reportedly taken in the presence of his parents as he was about to have lunch after the Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat had filed a complaint of defamation against Ojwang’.
He was first booked at Mawego Police Station before being swiftly transported to Nairobi, where he was booked at Central Police Station under OB Number 137/7/6/2025.
Officers conducting a routine inspection of the cells in the early hours of June 8 found Ojwang’ unconscious.
He was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Kenya Police Service, through the Officer Commanding Capitol Hill Police Station, confirmed the arrest of the officer and noted that the matter is being handled in accordance with established legal and disciplinary procedures.
The IPOA has assured the public that all persons involved in the case will be held to account and that a full, transparent investigation is underway.
Ojwang’s family and supporters continue to call for justice and an independent inquest into the events leading to his death.
The officer is expected to be arraigned tomorrow before the High Court to face Murder charges.
