The Nairobi High Court has declined to grant bail or bond to former Nairobi Central Police Station OCS, Samson Kiprotich Talaam, and five others facing murder charges over the death of blogger and teacher Albert Omondi Ojwang.
Delivering the ruling on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Lady Justice Diana Kavedza ruled that releasing the accused posed a high risk of evidence interference, especially given their prior positions of authority. She emphasized that some of the accused, despite being interdicted, still wield influence within the police service and their communities.
Justice Kavedza further noted that releasing the suspects could trigger public unrest, recalling the demonstrations that erupted following Ojwang’s death in police custody, which led to loss of property and heightened national tensions.
The six accused — OCS Talaam, Police Constable James Mukhwana, Peter Kimani, John Ngige Gitau, Gin Ammitou Abwao, and Brian Mwaniki Njue — will remain in custody pending the determination of their case. They had earlier pleaded not guilty to the murder charge under sections 203 and 204 of the Penal Code.
Prosecution’s Objection
The Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) strongly opposed the bail application, arguing that the accused had already interfered with key evidence, including CCTV footage from the night Ojwang was killed. The DPP also warned of potential intimidation of witnesses, some of whom are police officers.
A pre-bail probation report also recommended against their release, citing public anger over the incident and concerns for the safety of the accused themselves. Ojwang’s family similarly raised fears that the suspects could use proxies to derail the case if freed.
Defense’s Plea
In their defense, the accused urged the court to grant bail, pledging compliance with all court orders. However, Justice Kavedza ruled that the risks of interference and public disorder outweighed their application.
The murder trial is set to proceed with the accused remaining in remand custody.
