Six police officers accused of murdering Albert Omondi Ojwang have denied the charges before the Kibera High Court.
The case has attracted national attention as details continue to emerge about what happened on the night of June 7 to 8, 2025, at the Central Police Station in Nairobi.
The suspects are Samson Talaam, the Officer Commanding the Station, James Mukhwana, Peter Kimani, and three others whose names were not immediately revealed.
According to the prosecution, the six jointly attacked Ojwang while he was in custody, leading to his death on June 8.The Director of Public Prosecutions, who approved the charges, urged the court to deny the officers bail.
The prosecution argued that the accused are still serving police officers and are in positions of power within the system. Their access to firearms, internal police networks, and authority over junior officers gives them a serious advantage that could affect the outcome of the case.
The court was told that the suspects could tamper with evidence, threaten or influence witnesses, and frustrate investigations if released on bond.
The DPP pointed out that one of the officers, John Gitau, was being held at the same station during the incident and is under investigation for another murder case.
This, according to the prosecution, shows a worrying trend of impunity within the station. The DPP also warned that the public is watching the case closely, and any decision to release the suspects might lead to further public anger and unrest.
The prosecution noted that Ojwang’s death had already led to protests and growing public concern over police brutality and lack of accountability.
They also reminded the court that the suspects’ refusal to take responsibility does not mean they are innocent, especially when the evidence is still being gathered. The prosecution maintained that their continued detention is necessary to protect the integrity of the case.
They insisted that the safety of witnesses, the credibility of the evidence, and the confidence of the public in the justice system must come first.
Meanwhile, online pressure continues to mount on the government to take action against Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.
Many Kenyans believe he should be held accountable for the environment that allowed such a death to happen in police custody.
Lagat has already stepped aside from his duties and recorded a statement with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority. His lawyers have denied any connection to Ojwang’s death, but the public remains sceptical.
The case has become a symbol of the fight for justice against police abuse in Kenya.
There is growing demand from citizens for full accountability not just for the six officers charged, but also for senior figures who may have failed to act or protected the accused.
The court is expected to make a decision on bail soon, with all eyes on whether the justice system will prioritise public interest over internal loyalty.
