Court to rule on bail for ex-OCS Talaam, five others in Albert Ojwang’ murder case

Six accused persons in Albert Ojwang' murder in Kibera law courts on July 30,2025

A Kibera court will deliver its ruling on September 26, 2025, on whether six suspects charged with the murder of Albert Ojwang’ will be released on bail or bond.

Among the accused is former OCS of Central Police Station, Samson Talaam.

His lawyer, Danstan Omari, urged Justice Diana Kavedza to grant bail on reasonable terms, arguing that the State had provided no concrete reasons to deny his client temporary release.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions told the court that probation reports for all six suspects had been submitted and shared.

The reports carried negative findings and recommended against bail. The prosecution requested the court to issue directions on how to proceed.

“We’ll make submissions on the same before the court gives directions,” the defence team said.

Omari presented a letter dated June 7, 2025, from the Nairobi Regional Police Commander confirming that Talaam had been interdicted from service, placed on half salary, and stripped of all police powers and privileges, effective June 9.

“Your appointment as a police officer shall not cease, but your powers, privileges, and benefits shall be suspended,” the letter stated.

Omari argued that Talaam is no longer in a position to influence investigations or pose a threat to public order, as he has surrendered his uniform, badge, firearm, and government-issued equipment.

“The probation officer incorrectly assumes that Talaam is still an active officer capable of causing public disorder. That is no longer the case,” he told the court.

He added that Talaam had served in the police force for 28 years without a criminal record and came from a stable, religious background.

His family, including children and a spouse, now depends on his reduced income.

Omari also cited the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and Article 53 of the Constitution, saying Talaam’s children would be directly affected by his continued detention.

The lawyer said no evidence had been presented to suggest Talaam had attempted to interfere with witnesses and described the concerns raised by Ipoa and the probation officer as speculative.

Justice Kavedza also ordered that the second accused be moved to Industrial Area Police Station, after concerns were raised about his safety at Nairobi Remand.

The defence lawyer was directed to file a formal explanation to support the transfer request.

During the proceedings, a human rights activist, Mulinge Muteti, interrupted the court session, claiming the case was incomplete without the arrest of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

Justice Kavedza instructed Muteti to apologise or face arrest. He complied and was later allowed to express his concerns privately and off the record.

The case will return to court on September 26 for the bail ruling.