Death in Police Custody: Family Disputes Official Account

Death in Custody: Family Disputes Police Account in Kenyan Fisherman's Case A 36-year-old fisherman, Calvin Omondi Onditi, was found dead in a police cell in Mbita, Homa Bay County, Kenya, on June 15, 2025. Police claim Onditi died by suicide, allegedly hanging himself with his trousers. However, his family strongly disputes this claim. Onditi's relatives have pointed to visible bruises on his neck as evidence of foul play. "When the police arrest you in this country, your family should start preparing for your funeral expenses," stated one relative in a video interview. They also criticized the police for moving Onditi's body from the Kipasi Police Post before they could examine it. A post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted at Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital to determine the cause of death. This incident follows recent deaths in police custody, raising national concerns about police brutality and accountability. The family's demand for a thorough and transparent investigation underscores the need for greater oversight of police conduct and protection of citizens' rights.