Ipoa targets call records for 17 numbers in Ojwang’s death probe

An AI generate call log./AI illustration

The Ipoa has moved to court seeking orders compelling a telecommunication service provider to produce call logs and communication data for at least 17 telephone numbers in connection with the death of blogger Albert Omondi Ojwang.

In an application filed on Friday, June 13, 2025, Ipoa says it is seeking access to communication and location data linked to individuals of interest in the ongoing investigation into Ojwang’s suspected murder while in police custody.

Through investigator Abdirahman Jibril, Ipoa is requesting court orders to access documents including account opening details, registered subscriber information, call data records, and associated movement patterns.

“The telco (name withheld) holds crucial information and documentation that will significantly aid in ensuring a comprehensive, impartial, and conclusive investigation into this incident,” Ipoa stated in its application.

The application was filed the same day Ipoa obtained orders to continue detaining Constable James Mukhwana of Nairobi’s Central Police Station until June 20.

Mukhwana was arrested and arraigned on Friday, June 13, in connection with Ojwang’s death in custody at the Central Police Station.

In court, investigating officer Abdirahman Jibril argued that releasing Mukhwana at this stage could jeopardise the investigation, claiming he may interfere with witnesses.

Ipoa provided 17 specific mobile phone numbers for which it seeks data covering the period between June 4, 2025 (from 5:00 a.m.) and June 8, 2025 (up to 12:00 a.m.).

The authority is also seeking a directive requiring the telco to appoint an authorised officer to issue a Certificate of Production of Electronic Evidence under Section 106B(4) of the Evidence Act.

Ipoa stated that this certificate would validate the authenticity of any electronic records provided for legal use.

Additionally, Ipoa has requested the court to ensure a copy of any resulting order is served on the executive of the alleged telco.

According to the application, Ipoa is investigating the suspected death in custody of Albert Ojwang, an offence contrary to Section 203 of the Penal Code.

The agency cites its statutory mandate under Sections 6 and 7 of the Ipoa Act to conduct the investigation.

The requested data pertains to mobile numbers allegedly used by persons of interest during the relevant period, with Ipoa relying on the information to identify and possibly prosecute Ojwang’s killers.

Ipoa argues that the call logs and location data will help identify the registered users of the numbers and analyse their communication and movement patterns—crucial steps in determining whether any legal action should follow.

The court was told that the telecommunication service provider is the lawful custodian of the relevant subscriber data, including call and location records, which are key to ensuring a full and impartial investigation.

Ipoa also noted that most of the required documents exist in electronic form and will need to be certified in accordance with evidentiary standards for digital records.