The High Court is set to deliver a ruling on whether interdicted Central Police OCS Samson Talaam and his co-accused will be released on bail as they await trial over the murder of Albert Ojwang’.

During Wednesday’s hearing, Talaam’s defence team urged the court to grant bail to him, alongside officers James Mukhwana and Peter Kimani. Talaam’s lawyer argued that his client is a family man whose children depend on him. However, the prosecution opposed the request, warning that the accused could interfere with witnesses and tamper with evidence.

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK), appearing as an interested party, also objected to the bail application, citing the accused officers’ active links within the police service, which could enable obstruction of justice.

Other accused persons in the case include John Ngige, Gin Ammitou Abwao, and Brian Mwaniki.

Ojwang’ was arrested at his Homa Bay home over alleged defamation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat and later died in police custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. His death sparked nationwide protests against police brutality and calls for DIG Lagat’s resignation.

Following an independent investigation, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) confirmed sufficient grounds for prosecuting the officers, despite attempts by senior police officials to block their prosecution.