Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Kipkoech Lagat, has found himself at the epicentre of a high-stakes investigation surrounding the mysterious death of political blogger and whistleblower Albert Ojwang’. The incident, which has stirred national uproar, has also reignited debates on police accountability, freedom of expression, and the influence of top law enforcement officers.
The unfolding case took a dramatic turn this week when Inspector General of Police (IG) Douglas Kanja, appearing before the Senate, disclosed that it was DIG Lagat who had filed the initial complaint against Ojwang’. According to Kanja, the deceased had made a series of damning posts on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), accusing Lagat of orchestrating systemic corruption within the National Police Service (NPS).
“The post claimed that he [Lagat] was involved in corruption within the NPS,” Kanja stated. “Specifically, the published information alleged that Lagat has strategically placed his most trusted officers in charge of the DCI books desk and traffic shifts in order to control both revenue streams and intelligence flow.”
One of the more incendiary online posts featured an image of Lagat alongside senior traffic commander Joseph Chirchir, under the provocative caption: “EACC investigating top cop after purchase of $2.6 million home in Dubai.” The image bore the headline “Eliud Lagat mafia police,” further fuelling public speculation and scrutiny.
While investigations into the circumstances of Ojwang’s death remain inconclusive, civil rights groups and concerned citizens are increasingly pointing fingers at DIG Lagat. Many allege that Ojwang’s death was not merely coincidental, but a direct consequence of his outspoken criticism of the high-ranking officer. These accusations have sparked widespread calls for Lagat’s resignation and for a full independent investigation into the matter.
A Decorated Career Now Under the Microscope
Despite the current controversy, DIG Eliud Lagat has long been regarded as one of the most experienced and decorated officers within the Kenya Police Service. With a career spanning over 25 years, his rise through the ranks has been marked by significant appointments and national recognition.
He assumed the role of Deputy Inspector General in 2024, following the promotion of Douglas Kanja to Inspector General. In this capacity, Lagat oversees the daily operations of the Kenya Police Service, including coordination, supervision, training, and internal oversight.
Before his current appointment, Lagat served as the Commandant of the General Service Unit (GSU), an elite paramilitary wing of the police, from 2023. Prior to that, he was the Director of Reforms at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in 2022. His expertise in counterterrorism was honed during his tenure as Head of the Bomb and Hazardous Materials Unit, where he gained national and regional acclaim.
In 2022, Lagat was among ten shortlisted candidates vying to replace outgoing DCI boss George Kinoti—an acknowledgment of his deep institutional knowledge and technical expertise.
Academic Credentials and Honours
Lagat’s educational background is equally distinguished. He holds a Master’s Degree in Armed Conflict and Peace Studies from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Technology in Automotive Engineering from the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton.
He is the recipient of numerous national honors, including the Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS), the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) of Kenya, Head of State Commendation (HSC), the Silver Star (SS) of Kenya, and the coveted “NDC” (K) badge from the National Defence College.
Mounting Pressure
Despite his storied career and impressive credentials, the pressure mounting on DIG Lagat is intense. Activists and watchdog organizations argue that his involvement in Ojwang’s arrest, followed closely by the blogger’s unexplained death, raises serious concerns about abuse of power and the shrinking space for dissent in Kenya.
The Senate Committee on Security and Legal Affairs has vowed to press forward with a comprehensive inquiry, while the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is said to be reviewing financial records tied to the controversial Dubai property allegations.
As the investigation deepens, all eyes remain fixed on DIG Lagat. Once hailed for his technical acumen and leadership within specialized police units, his legacy now hangs in the balance, caught between a history of service and an explosive political scandal that could redefine the future of police oversight in Kenya.
Written By Rodney Mbua
