Two civilians alleged to have participated in the assault that led to the death of teacher Albert Ojwang have agreed to be held in custody for 14 days.
Through their lawyer, Ezer Nguono, the suspects, namely Gin Ammitou and Collins Karani, did not object to the State’s request for extended detention when they were arraigned at the Kibera Law Courts on Monday.
Nguono told the court the decision was made in the interest of the suspects’ safety.
The State had filed an application seeking to detain the respondents for 21 days to allow further investigations.
They argued that IPOA needed time to collect their DNA samples, analyse electronic devices, and record statements from key witnesses.
IPOA, represented by the State counsel, told the court that preliminary findings show that the suspects played a participatory role in the murder case.
The authority maintained that releasing the respondents at this stage would compromise the integrity of the probe, hinder ongoing arrests, and expose witnesses to potential interference.
“Ipoa is in the process of having witnesses based on the police station (Central police station) and surrounding areas interviewed, and the release of respondents could interfere with witnesses,” the court heard.
In response to the State’s application, the defence, did not oppose the request for extended detention but emphasised that the agreement to a 14-day remand was purely for the safety and protection of the respondents.
Additionally, Nguono told the court that the respondents were willing to cooperate with investigations but urged that their rights be safeguarded under a reasonable custodial period.
“In the interest of justice, I am reminded to allow the application as had represented, except to add that the period allowed is for 14 days and not 21 days,” Magistrate Daisy Mutai ruled.
The court also directed that the respondents’ family members be allowed unrestricted access to visit them during their detention
Medical reports indicated that Ojwang’s death was a result of head injury due to blunt force trauma and neck compression.
The case will be mentioned on July 7 for further directives.