Kenyan Influencer's Death in Custody Sparks Outrage, Demands for Police Reform

Kenyan X Influencer Dies in Police Custody, Sparking Calls for Reform On June 9th, 2025, Albert Ojwang, a prominent X influencer and teacher, died while in police custody in Homa Bay County, Kenya. His death has ignited widespread outrage and calls for greater police accountability. Ojwang was arrested on Saturday afternoon by DCI officers, according to TV47 News. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, but the incident has raised serious concerns about police brutality and the effectiveness of oversight bodies. "IPOA needs to be proactive, not wait for police to commit heinous acts before saying someone will be kicked out or suspended," stated Samuel Poghisio, a panelist on the TV47 discussion. He emphasized that investigations should not be limited to lower-ranking officers but should also include those higher up the chain of command. The police have since released a statement indicating that several officers, including the OCS, have been interdicted. However, the lack of immediate action and the tragic outcome underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reform within the Kenyan police force. The incident highlights the vulnerability of individuals in police custody and the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability in the face of police misconduct.