A 25-year-old man suspected of abduction, Lucky Odhiambo, was found dead inside a police cell in Malindi three days after his arrest. Police officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations had detained him on Tuesday, April 14.
Detectives from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau worked with officers from Malindi sub-county during the arrest. Authorities linked Odhiambo to the abduction of a 17-year-old girl. The victim is the daughter of a senior police officer attached to Malindi GK Prison.
Police allege that Odhiambo demanded a ransom of KSh 200,000 from the victim’s family. Officers also claim he threatened to harm the minor if the money was not paid.
Malindi police commander Moses Kosgei confirmed the death inside the cell. He stated that the suspect used clothing to take his own life while in custody.
However, human rights activists rejected the official explanation. Vocal Africa representative Walid Sketty and activist Victor Kaudo raised concerns over possible foul play.
They called for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. They argued that authorities must explain how the incident occurred under police custody.
The case has now drawn attention to the conduct of officers handling the arrest and detention. The senior police officer whose daughter was allegedly abducted is also now under investigation.
Authorities continue to probe both the abduction case and the death inside the cell. The incident has raised fresh concerns about police custody and accountability in Malindi.
