NAIROBI — A Nairobi court has ordered the detention of Chief Inspector Samson Talaam for 15 days. Talaam is under investigation for the death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang, who died inside a police cell at Central Police Station earlier this month.
Milimani Magistrate BenMark Ekhubi delivered the ruling Wednesday, siding with prosecutors who argued that Talaam’s position and influence posed a threat to the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
“The accused commands the country’s largest police station and has a vast network,” Ekhubi said. “There is credible risk that he may interfere with witnesses or evidence.”
Ojwang was arrested and held at Central Police Station before his body was found in the station’s holding cell under unclear circumstances. IPOA (Independent Policing Oversight Authority) and the prosecution team had requested 21 days to complete what they described as a complex investigation.
Ekhubi ruled that the state had shown sufficient cause to deny bail. He cited concerns over Talaam’s ability to invoke long-standing police loyalty networks, often referred to as the “blue code of silence,” to obstruct the investigation.
Investigators also told the court that Talaam’s phone—currently in police custody—was used to send text messages to specific individuals and to members of Ojwang’s family. The messages allegedly asked for financial help and claimed Talaam was in a critical situation. These communications are being reviewed as potential evidence of manipulation or coercion.
The court has summoned IPOA lead investigator Abdirahman Jibril to appear on Friday, June 20, for further explanation on the status and scope of the inquiry.
Talaam, a police officer with 29 years of service, will remain in custody as investigations continue. His legal team has not indicated whether it will appeal the decision. The prosecution has stated that additional witnesses are expected to testify before a charging decision is made.
The death of Ojwang has drawn public scrutiny and renewed focus on alleged police misconduct within detention facilities. The case remains under active investigation.
