June 19, 2025
A Nairobi court has summoned the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to explain how a phone seized from Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Samson Talaam was allegedly used to extort money from the public while in their custody.
Milimani Principal Magistrate Benmark Enkhubi on Wednesday ordered IPOA’s Senior Assistant Director of Investigations to appear in court on Friday, June 20, following claims that the phone was used to solicit KSh 80,000 from Talaam’s lawyer and relatives via WhatsApp.
Defense Alleges Misuse of Evidence
Talaam’s legal team, led by lawyers Cliff Ombeta and Danstan Omari, presented screenshots of WhatsApp messages allegedly sent from the device after it was confiscated. The messages, which requested money, appeared to originate from Talaam’s number.
“This phone was in IPOA custody,” said Ombeta. “If it was used to extort money, then someone within the authority is responsible. This raises serious concerns about the integrity of the investigation.”
The defense argued the messages were uncharacteristic of their client and suggested possible interference or impersonation.
State Confirms Phone in IPOA Hands
State prosecutor Victor Owiti confirmed the phone was seized and handed over to IPOA’s forensic unit. He acknowledged the messages originated from the device but maintained that it had been in secure custody.
Owiti assured the court that IPOA would launch an internal probe and that Investigator Jibril, who handled the phone, would be available for questioning on Friday.
Background
Talaam is currently in custody as investigations continue into the death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’. The allegations surrounding the phone have cast fresh doubt on the credibility of IPOA’s handling of evidence in the high-profile case.
Magistrate Enkhubi emphasized the seriousness of the claims and directed IPOA to account for the alleged misuse.
What’s Next
IPOA is expected to present its findings and respond to the allegations in court on Friday. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for the oversight body and the ongoing case against Talaam.
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