Former Nairobi Central Police Station Officer Commanding Station (OCS), Samson Kiprotich Talaam, will remain in custody until September 26, 2025, as the court prepares to deliver a ruling on his bail application.
Alongside Talaam, five other accused individuals Police Constable James Mukhwana, Peter Kimani, John Ngige Gitau, Gin Ammitou Abwao, and Brian Mwaniki Njue are also remanded following the state’s objection to their release on bond. They are all facing murder charges linked to the death of blogger and teacher Albert Omondi Ojwang, who died while in police custody.
Appearing before the court on July 30, the prosecution argued against granting bail or bond, citing the likelihood of witness interference, especially as some witnesses are serving police officers. The prosecution further alleged that the accused individuals had already tampered with key evidence, including CCTV footage from the Central Police Station, which captured the events of the night Ojwang died.
A pre-bail report submitted by probation officers reinforced the prosecution’s position. The report suggested that releasing the accused could pose risks to their safety, noting widespread public anger over the circumstances of Ojwang’s death. It recommended deferring the bail decision until public sentiment had subsided to ensure both the accused’s safety and the integrity of the trial.
The prosecution also raised concerns from the deceased’s family, who fear the accused might use their influence or proxies to obstruct justice. These concerns intensified after learning that a complainant involved in the case that led to Ojwang’s arrest had reportedly resumed duty, raising fears of undue influence within the security system.
Despite these arguments, the accused persons pleaded for release on bail, assuring the court of their willingness to comply with all conditions the court might impose.
All six accused previously pleaded not guilty to the murder charge on June 24, 2025, under Section 203 as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code. The court is expected to make its ruling on the bail application on September 26, 2025.
