The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has dropped a bombshell in court, accusing Nairobi Central Police Station’s Officer Commanding Station (OCS), Samson Taalam, of interfering with crucial CCTV footage linked to the controversial death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang in police custody.
Appearing before the Milimani Law Courts, prosecutors claimed that Taalam hired a technician to tamper with surveillance systems at Central Police Station, in what they described as a calculated attempt to obstruct justice and derail the investigation.
“The respondent is the custodian of station records and CCTV systems. He brought in a technician to alter evidence,” said State Counsel, urging the court to approve a 21-day detention to protect the integrity of the probe.
Phone Seized, Witness Intimidation Feared
The DPP further revealed that Taalam’s mobile phone has been confiscated and is undergoing forensic analysis. Investigators believe the device could contain critical evidence, including communication records relevant to the death of Ojwang.
Prosecutors also raised concerns that Taalam, given his rank and authority, poses a significant risk of intimidating key witnesses, especially officers who were on duty the night Ojwang died.
“Several police officers are yet to record statements. There’s a high likelihood the OCS will interfere with them if released,” the court was told.
IPOA Steps In As Public Pressure Mounts
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is now spearheading the investigation, a move that has drawn national attention following mounting public outrage over the handling of custodial deaths in Kenya.
The State emphasized that its request for pre-trial detention is not punitive but necessary, and designed to uphold the rights of victims and ensure a thorough, impartial investigation.
Court Decision Pending
The defense is expected to oppose the State’s application, with the court set to rule on whether Taalam will remain in custody for the requested 21 days.
This case follows growing calls for police accountability and echoes a similar demand by former Chief Justice David Maraga, who urged the prosecution of top police officers implicated in Ojwang’s death.
