Sarah Wairimu denied bail in Tob Cohen murder case

Sarah Wairimu denied bail in Tob Cohen murder case

Sarah Wairimu has been denied bail in a case involving the murder of her late husband Tob Cohen.

In a statement on Tuesday, February 18, 2024, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) said the judge had ruled that she be detained at the Lang’ata Women’s Prison until two key witnesses testify.

“Kibera High Court has denied Sarah Wairimu Cohen bond after the prosecution opposed her release. Wairimu, the widow of the late Dutch tycoon Tob Cohen will be remanded at Langata women’s prison until two key witnesses testify. She is alleged to have murdered her husband on the 19th of July 2019 in the Lower Kabete area within Nairobi County,” ODPP stated.

Lady Justice Diana Kavedza ruled that the prosecution proved with sufficient evidence the likelihood of witness intimidation and interference, leading to the denial of bail.

Justice Kavedza stated that Sarah’s case is of public interest where a life was lost in the most heinous manner.

“It is my considered view therefore that the principal of justice and public interest outweigh the accused right to liberty at this stage” ruled justice Kavedza as quoted by the ODPP.

She further stated that the court must safeguard the trial’s integrity by protecting witnesses and preventing potential interference.

“The Court declined the accused’s application for bail and stated that the accused shall remain in custody until after the two key witnesses have testified,” ODPP added.

Wairimu was re-arrested after Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga reviewed the murder case and determined that there was sufficient evidence to charge her with murder.

“The case was prosecuted by SADPP Vincent Monda, SADPP Gikui Gichuhi, ADPP Sarah Ogweno, PC Peris Maina, and PC Livia Gachanja,” ODPP added.

The matter will be mentioned on February 26, 2025, for pretrial directions.