Eliud Lagat: How embattled DIG rose from mechanic to highly decorated police chief

Eliud Lagat’s journey from a small-town mechanic to Kenya’s Deputy Inspector General is a tale of grit and ambition, now overshadowed by a chilling scandal.

With over 27 years in the police service, Lagat’s career was a masterclass in climbing the ranks, only to face ruin after the mysterious death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang in custody.

As Kenya grapples with outrage, Lagat’s legacy teeters on the edge. Lagat’s story began humbly, fixing engines with a Bachelor of Technology in Automotive Engineering from the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton.

In 1998, he graduated from the Kenya Police College in Kiganjo, joining the force with a knack for precision.

By 2010, he earned a Master’s in Armed Conflict and Peace Studies from the University of Nairobi, blending technical skill with security expertise.

His early years in the Bomb Disposal Unit under the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) showcased his cool-headedness, defusing explosives during tense times like the 2012 Eastleigh blasts.

From 2001 to 2005, he excelled as a forensic investigator at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), later becoming deputy head of the Crime Scene Support Unit.

By 2015, he led the Bomb and Hazardous Materials Unit, mastering post-blast analysis. In 2020, Lagat’s expertise landed him as deputy director of DCI reforms, modernising investigations.

By 2022, he headed the Investigations Bureau, managing complex security operations.

In April 2023, he took charge of the elite General Service Unit (GSU), a 12,000-strong force tackling high-stakes missions. By July 2024, Lagat became Deputy Inspector General, succeeding Douglas Kanja.

His chest gleamed with honours: Elder of the Burning Spear, Order of the Grand Warrior, Head of State Commendation, Silver Star of Kenya, and a prestigious National Defence College award.

To many, he was the ideal police leader, sharp, decorated, trusted. But in June 2025, everything changed. Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old Homa Bay blogger, was arrested after allegations of publishing material that tanished Lagat’s name.

Lagat filed a defamation complaint, and Ojwang was driven 350 kilometres to Nairobi’s Central Police Station.

Days later, he was dead. Police claimed suicide by head-banging, but an autopsy revealed severe head injuries, neck compression, and trauma consistent with assault.

“These were inflicted externally,” said pathologist Dr. Bernard Midia.

Outrage erupted as protesters flooded Nairobi streets, chanting “Lagat must go” amid tear gas and burning cars.

Amnesty International Kenya called the death “suspicious,” while activists filed a private murder prosecution against Lagat.

Senators like Boni Khalwale demanded his arrest. “He must face justice,” Khalwale said.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority arrested two officers and a technician for disabling CCTV, and the station commander faces scrutiny.

On June 16, Lagat stepped aside, vowing to cooperate with the investigation and offering condolences.

President Ruto called the death “heart-breaking,” promising justice, but public trust in the police is fraying.Lagat’s deputy now holds the reins, and Kenya watches closely.