Fact Check: Two policemen have been arrested in connection with the death of Albert Ojwang
What We Know
Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old blogger, died in police custody in Nairobi, Kenya, after being arrested for allegedly defaming Deputy Inspector-General of Police Eliud Lagat on social media. Initial police statements claimed that Ojwang died from self-inflicted injuries after banging his head against a cell wall. However, an autopsy contradicted this claim, indicating that his death was likely the result of an assault rather than self-harm (BBC, Reuters). Following the autopsy results, protests erupted in Nairobi, demanding accountability and the resignation of police officials involved in the case.
In connection with Ojwang's death, two policemen have been arrested: Officer Commanding Station Samson Talam and PC James Mukhwana. Additionally, a technician accused of disabling the police station's CCTV system has also been detained. Investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) suggest that these officers may have been involved in both the planning and execution of Ojwang's death, as well as attempts to cover up the incident (BBC, AP News).
Analysis
The claim that two policemen have been arrested in connection with Albert Ojwang's death is supported by multiple credible sources. The BBC and Reuters both confirm the arrests of Officer Commanding Station Samson Talam and PC James Mukhwana, along with the technician responsible for disabling the CCTV (BBC, Reuters). The information is corroborated by reports from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, which is a recognized body tasked with overseeing police conduct in Kenya.
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are well-established news organizations with a history of reporting on human rights and police accountability issues. The BBC and Reuters are known for their rigorous journalistic standards and fact-checking processes. Additionally, the IPOA's involvement lends further credibility to the claims, as it is an official entity responsible for investigating police misconduct.
However, it is essential to note that while the arrests have been made, the ongoing investigations mean that the full details surrounding Ojwang's death and the extent of the officers' involvement are still unfolding. The situation remains tense, with public protests indicating widespread dissatisfaction with police accountability in Kenya (AP News).
Conclusion
The claim that two policemen have been arrested in connection with the death of Albert Ojwang is True. The evidence from multiple reputable sources confirms the arrests and outlines the context of Ojwang's death, including the subsequent public outcry and ongoing investigations into police conduct. The situation highlights significant issues surrounding police accountability in Kenya, which are currently under scrutiny.
Sources
- One dead in Kenyan protests over death of blogger ...
- Albert Ojwang's death: Senior Kenyan policeman Samson Talam arrested ...
- Clashes in Kenya protests over death of blogger in custody
- Kenya's deputy police chief steps aside as blogger's death ...
- Kenyan blogger's wife seeks answers after his death in ...
- Two more cops mentioned in Albert Ojwang's death surrender to Ipoa
