The Officer Commanding Central Police Station in Nairobi, Samson Talam, is expected to appear in court today for a ruling on whether he will be detained for an additional 21 days. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has filed a miscellaneous application seeking to extend his detention in connection with the death of Albert Ojwang, who died while in custody.
Talam was arrested on June 13 following allegations of planning, directing, and attempting to cover up the fatal assault on Ojwang inside the police station cells. IPOA’s application is supported by an affidavit from a senior investigations officer, which also alleges that Talam maintained constant communication with Police Constable James Mukhwana. Mukhwana, who had access to the cells, is also in custody over the same matter.
The oversight authority argues that Talam’s release could jeopardize ongoing investigations, lead to potential witness interference, and pose public safety concerns due to his influence as a senior police officer. IPOA emphasized the need for more time to conduct forensic analysis on electronic devices seized during the investigation and to finalize inquiries before deciding whether to press formal charges.
Talam’s legal team has opposed the application, asserting that no compelling evidence supports the claims made in IPOA’s affidavit. The defense pointed out Talam’s long service in the police force—spanning 29 years—and his voluntary cooperation, including his decision to present himself to the authorities. They requested his release on a cash bail of Sh7,000 or a reasonable bond and offered assurances that he would avoid the Central Police Station or its environs if released.
The prosecution, however, maintained that the 21-day period is crucial due to the case’s complexity. They added that a decision on whether to charge Talam has not yet been made, though it could be reviewed earlier based on the progress of investigations. The family of the deceased, represented by lawyer Julius Juma, supported the request for extended detention.
In related developments, four more officers from Central and Mawego police stations have been questioned. While they are not yet classified as suspects, investigators are considering whether to use them as witnesses. Additionally, four civilians remain in custody as part of the investigation.
A separate but related case involves a 23-year-old technician and a second suspect who were detained for 14 days for allegedly disabling CCTV systems at the Central Police Station. Investigators claim the technician was paid Sh3,000 to interfere with the surveillance system, potentially concealing crucial evidence. Both suspects are being held at Kilimani Police Station as forensic analysis of their mobile phones continues and guidance is sought from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
