The Director of Public Prosecutions has told the Milimani Law Courts that Nairobi Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam interfered with key evidence in the ongoing investigation into the death of Albert Ojwang in police custody.

The court heard that Taalam, who is the official custodian of the station’s records and surveillance system, hired a technician to tamper with CCTV footage at the station in what is believed to be an attempt to obstruct justice.

The DPP also revealed that Taalam’s mobile phone has been seized and is undergoing forensic analysis as part of the broader investigation.

The State expressed concern that Taalam’s continued presence outside custody could jeopardise the case.

“There are witnesses, particularly police officers who were on duty on the material day, who are yet to be interviewed and have their statements recorded. Given the respondent’s position as OCS, there is a high likelihood that he will interfere with these potential witnesses,” the prosecution stated.

The prosecution is seeking to have Taalam detained for 21 days to allow the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to complete its investigations without interference.

“This limited period of detention is the least intrusive measure we can take to safeguard the interests of justice and ensure the victims’ rights are upheld,” the court was told.

The prosecution said it had acted in good faith by bringing Taalam before the court without delay and that he had been informed of the reasons for his arrest and the legal grounds for seeking his detention.

“We have satisfied the legal tests required for pre-trial detention. There is already demonstrable interference with evidence and witnesses. We only seek a short window to conclude investigations,” said the State Counsel.

The court is expected to rule on the detention request in due course. The defence is set to oppose the application.