The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has demanded a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Eric Otieno, a boda boda rider from Mathare, who died shortly after being released from Muthaiga Police Station.

Otieno was arrested on August 1, 2026, on allegations of preparing to commit a felony. He was released on cash bail the following day but died soon after while being rushed to a hospital. His family alleges he was assaulted by police officers while in custody, with Otieno reportedly complaining of severe abdominal pain before his release.

Calls for Accountability

LSK President Charles Kanjama has urged the Internal Affairs Unit of the Kenya Police, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) to take immediate and transparent action.

"The unlawful death of Eric Otieno at Muthaiga Police Station demands urgent investigation and accountability," Kanjama stated, emphasizing the need to secure the crime scene and preserve evidence.

Family's Account and Medical Findings

According to Otieno's elder brother, Emmanuel Sakis, Otieno was in visible distress and reported being beaten by five officers during his detention. The family also revealed that the police initially demanded a Sh10,000 cash bail, later reduced to Sh6,000.

A postmortem conducted by government pathologist Dr Bernard Midia confirmed that Otieno died from massive internal bleeding caused by trauma to the abdomen. His spleen was ruptured and part of his bowel injured, leading to fatal hemorrhaging.

Broader Concerns on Police Custody Deaths

Former LSK President Faith Odhiambo condemned the incident as part of a troubling pattern of deaths in police custody. She stressed that police cells must ensure the safety and lawful treatment of detainees.

"When the State detains a citizen, it assumes a duty of care, not a license for cruelty or neglect," Odhiambo said, warning that failure to hold perpetrators accountable erodes public trust in the justice system.

The family has called on IPOA to thoroughly investigate the case, highlighting that timely medical intervention might have saved Otieno’s life.

Public Reaction

On Tuesday, members of the public protested outside Muthaiga Police Station demanding justice and transparency regarding Otieno's death.