Homa Bay: Investigations after theft suspect dies in police cell

The deceased, identified as Calvince Omondi Onditi, was apprehended by the area chief at around 3 a.m. on Sunday after reportedly being found in a goat pen in a homestead near Ndhuru Trading Centre.

He was later handed over to police at Kipasi for further processing.

Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilim said the suspect, a resident of Ndhiwa Constituency and fisherman at Ndhuru Beach, was discovered hanging from the roof of the cell using a pair of trousers.

The incident occurred as officers were preparing to transfer him to Mbita Police Station for further interrogation.

Koilim confirmed that detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and officers from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) had since visited the scene and launched an investigation into the death.

The body was transferred to the Homa Bay County Referral Hospital morgue after family members were notified.

However, local leaders have raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding the death.

Evance Osano, a cousin of the deceased, questioned the police narrative, suggesting foul play could not be ruled out

“We are not convinced he took his own life. We demand a thorough and transparent investigation,” Osano said.

The family has called on the government to expedite investigations to establish the truth and ensure accountability.