Extra Security for Nairobi OCS Amid Probe Into Blogger’s Death in Custody
Fears have emerged that Talam could be harmed while detained at Lang’ata police station, where he ironically once served as deputy OCS.
Nairobi Central Police Station OCS Samson Tallam. Photo/Capital FM.
By Robert Assad
Extra security measures have been implemented for Nairobi Central OCS Samson Talam, who is in custody over the death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’.
Fears have emerged that Talam could be harmed while detained at Lang’ata police station, where he ironically once served as deputy OCS.
Talam’s lawyer, Danstan Omari, said the officer remains in good spirits ahead of his court appearance scheduled for Monday.
Access to him in the cells has been restricted, with only his lawyers and family allowed, as police fear any harm to him could be used to discredit the service.
Talam, who reportedly presented himself to police, was arrested on Friday in connection with Ojwang’s death, which occurred hours after his arrest on June 7. Ojwang was taken from his home in Homa Bay to Nairobi over allegations of false publication and later died from what authorities believe was a brutal assault at Central Police Station.
Several officers, including James Mukhwana, and a technician who allegedly tampered with CCTV footage, are also in custody. The technician reportedly confessed to deleting footage after being paid Ksh.3,000.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), leading the investigation, alleges a coordinated cover-up attempt. Forensic analysis of suspects’ phones and results from the government chemist are awaited.
New CCTV footage from Mbagathi Hospital, where Ojwang’ was taken, has raised further questions. The 40-minute video shows police delaying medical help. Ojwang’ remained in the back of a police van for over 20 minutes before being admitted—already dead. Medical staff later confirmed he had severe injuries and signs of trauma.
The Internal Affairs Unit is conducting a separate probe into police conduct during Ojwang’s final hours.
Investigations into his arrest, detention, and death continue.
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