The Officer Commanding Central Police Station in Nairobi, Samson Talaam, is set to appear in court on Wednesday, as a magistrate rules on an application by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) seeking to detain him for an additional 21 days.
Talaam was arrested in connection with the alleged murder of Albert Ojwang inside the Central Police Station cells. IPOA has filed a miscellaneous application, arguing that more time is needed to complete investigations, including forensic analysis of electronic devices seized during the probe.
An affidavit filed by IPOA senior investigations officer Abdirahman Jibril claims Talaam planned, directed, and tried to conceal the fatal assault on Ojwang. The authority also alleges that Talaam was in constant communication with police constable James Mukhwana, who had access to the cells and is also in custody over the killing.
IPOA warned that Talaam’s release could jeopardize investigations by enabling witness interference due to his influence within the police service. The affidavit further cites concerns over public safety and unrest as justification for the extended detention.
Talaam’s lawyer opposed the application, arguing there was no compelling evidence to support IPOA’s claims. The defence requested bail of Sh7,000 or a reasonable bond, highlighting Talaam’s 29 years of police service, voluntary surrender, and pledge to avoid the Central Police Station premises.
The prosecution maintained that 21 days were necessary to complete the complex investigation and indicated that the decision to charge could be reviewed earlier if ready. The deceased’s family lawyer, Julius Juma, supported IPOA’s application.
Talaam was arrested on June 13 and presented in court on June 16. His detention is part of a broader investigation that has seen four more officers and four civilians questioned.
Separately, a Kahawa court detained a 23-year-old technician for 14 days over alleged tampering with CCTV footage at the police station. The technician was reportedly paid Sh3,000 to disable surveillance systems, potentially concealing key evidence in Ojwang’s murder.
IPOA continues to gather evidence, with the ODPP expected to guide the next legal steps.
