Central Police Station OCS Samson Talaam will remain in custody for 15 more days as investigations into the death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’ continue, a Nairobi court has ruled.

The decision was issued by Magistrate Ben Mark Ekhubi after the Independent Policing Oversight Authority applied to have Talam detained for 21 more days. The court instead granted 15 days, agreeing with the prosecution that releasing him at this stage could interfere with investigations and witnesses.

Ekhubi said the state had presented credible reasons to justify the continued detention, adding that the case involves senior police officers who hold influence and power. While he acknowledged the protests sparked by Ojwang’s death, he said they were not enough reason to consider Talam a flight risk.

“Demonstrations and protests have been ongoing despite the fact that the respondent has been in custody,” he said.

Talam’s lawyer asked the court to count the 15 days from June 13, when he was first arrested. But the prosecution said the count should begin from June 16, when the formal application was filed. The court sided with the prosecution.

The defense also raised concerns about Talam’s phone, alleging it was being used to solicit money from members of the public while still in police custody.

“We are seeking that the custodians of the phone be summoned to court to explain how the phone in their custody can be used to defraud Kenyans,” the defense stated.

The prosecution said they had no evidence that the phone had been misused, but the court directed that the matter be addressed during a mention set for Friday, June 20, where the investigating officer is expected to respond.

Ipoa was also granted permission to subject electronic devices recovered from Talam to forensic analysis. The defense did not object and handed over the phone to investigators.

Talam was arrested on June 13 and taken to court on June 16. He will remain in custody at Lang’ata Police Station until the 15 days are over.

Ojwang’ was arrested on June 7 after a complaint was filed by Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, who accused him of publishing false and malicious information. He later died while in custody, sparking public anger and a wave of protests across Nairobi.