The family of Nairobi Central Police Station OCS Samson Talam has strongly refuted reports that he was arrested while fleeing authorities.
In an official communication to newsrooms, the family clarified that, contrary to widespread claims, Talam was not on the run at the time of his apprehension.
It stressed that Eldoret, where he was reportedly "nabbed," is his known and official place of residence.
“OCS Taalam voluntarily surrendered himself to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), demonstrating full cooperation with the ongoing process,” said Tony Koskei, a family member.
The family noted that he was received in good order by authorities and is currently in lawful custody as investigations continue.
It urged the public and media to refrain from spreading misleading information, adding that "factual reporting is essential to ensure justice and due process are upheld".
“Let the truth guide public discourse. We urge media outlets and individuals to verify facts before spreading harmful misinformation,” Koskei stated.
Talam surrender follows allegations currently under investigation into the death of Albert Ojwang in custody.
He is being held at a police station in Nairobi and is set to be presented in court on Monday.
The family also dismissed as untrue claims that he had switched off his mobile phone to evade arrest.
“He was receiving several phone calls and remained accessible throughout. At no point did he go into hiding or attempt to avoid communication with investigators or colleagues. If at any moment his phone was off, it was only to avoid numerous calls from people inquiring about the incident,” Koskei added.
Taalam is said to have been off duty on Saturday night when Albert Ojwang, who later died under unclear circumstances in custody, was brought in.
Ojwang had been arrested at his home in Homa Bay over allegations of publishing false information.
Three other officers are also being held in connection with the incident.
In total, 23 individuals—including 17 police officers and six civilians—have been questioned as suspects or witnesses. Among them is a technician who installed the CCTV system at the station.
He admitted to being paid Sh3,000 to delete and format footage from the night Ojwang died.
Meanwhile, Ipoa was granted permission to detain Constable James Mukhwana for seven days as investigations continue.
In documents filed at the Milimani Law Courts, Ipoa stated that initial findings implicate Mukhwana and other yet-to-be-arrested officers in the fatal assault. They also accused the officers of participating in a coordinated cover-up.
Ipoa argued against releasing Mukhwana, citing the risk of witness interference and potential tampering with evidence, including critical custody records.
