A family in Kasipul, Homa Bay County, is devastated after their only child, Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher, died under unclear circumstances just hours after being arrested by men believed to be police officers.
Albert taught Kiswahili and Christian Religious Education. On a Saturday afternoon, a group of men on motorbikes came to his parents’ home, handcuffed him without explaining why, and took him away. His family says he was calm and healthy when they last saw him.
Less than a day later, Albert’s body was found at Nairobi Funeral Home, which is more than 400 kilometers away from his home. When his father, Meshack Ojwang Opiyo, went to identify the body, he was shocked to see bruises, injuries on Albert’s face, and a deformed head.
Albert was also missing his shirt, which was not the condition in which he was taken by the men on motorbikes. His father said his son was killed like an animal, showing deep pain and suspicion that Albert was tortured or assaulted.
The police have given a different story. They say Albert died because he hit his head on a wall inside a cell at the Central Police Station in Nairobi. According to the police, Albert was taken to the hospital after the injury but died shortly after.
A police statement claiming Albert Ojwang hit his head on the wall.
They also mention that he had bleeding from the nose, bruises on his torso and face. However, Albert’s family and friends are not convinced by this explanation. They say the police have not allowed them to see the cell where Albert was kept or to get key information about his death.
Friends describe Albert Ojwang as a gentle man who loved teaching and was passionate about his work. Just hours before his arrest, Albert sent a message to a friend asking for fuel money.
This message turned out to be his last communication. The arrest is believed to be linked to a controversial social media post from an account Albert had access to, but the real owner of that account is still in custody.
The Law Society of Kenya has spoken out, demanding clear answers about Albert’s death. They say the police explanation is misleading and want the authorities to investigate thoroughly.
Albert’s death has raised serious questions about how police handle arrests and treatment of detainees.
The family’s pain and the questions surrounding this case highlight the need for justice and transparency in such incidents. Albert’s story is a reminder of the dangers some face and the importance of protecting human rights, especially for those in custody.
