Court denies bail to former OCS Talaam, five co-accused in Albert Ojwang’s murder case
Justice Diana Kavedza pointed to widespread protests, destruction of property, and the torching of a police station following Ojwang's death, ruling that releasing the officers could endanger both their safety and national stability.
The High Court has declined to release on bail former Nairobi Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam and five other officers facing trial over the murder of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang.
Lady Justice Diana Kavedza, in a ruling delivered on Tuesday, ordered that Talaam, Police Constables James Mukhwana and Peter Kimani, alongside three co-accused persons, remain in custody as the case proceeds.
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The prosecution had opposed bail, claiming the release of the accused could interfere with witnesses and ongoing investigations being conducted by investigative bodies, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
Justice Kavedza dismissed this argument, noting that the prosecution had not provided evidence to support the claim. However, the court cited public safety concerns as the main reason for rejecting the bail plea.
The judge pointed to widespread protests, destruction of property, and the torching of a police station following Ojwang's death, ruling that releasing the officers could endanger both their safety and national stability.
"National security is a fundamental concern and cannot be treated casually when weighed against other interests," Justice Kavedza said, adding that granting bail at this stage would likely spark fresh public unrest.
The judge ordered the six to remain in custody pending a hearing and determination of the case.
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