The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has opposed the release on bond of Klinzy Barasa Masinde, a 32-year-old police constable charged with the murder of Bonface Kariuki.
Appearing before Justice Kanyi Kimondo, the DPP urged the court to deny the accused bond pending the full hearing and determination of the case.
Masinde is charged with murdering Boniface Kariuki, a 22-year-old street vendor shot during a Nairobi protest on June 25, 2025, amid public outrage over police brutality.
Masinde has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Prosecution argued that Masinde’s position as a serving police officer grants him significant authority, access to firearms, and the ability to influence potential witnesses including fellow officers who allegedly witnessed the fatal shooting.
They further cited his technical knowledge and access to sensitive information, including communication data, as tools he could use to trace or intimidate witnesses.
In addition to the risk of witness interference, Prosecution raised concerns that Masinde poses a flight risk. The court was also told that his release could incite public unrest and endanger his own safety, given widespread public outrage over the incident.
The DPP maintained that releasing him at this stage could undermine public confidence in the justice system, especially amid ongoing concerns about police accountability in use-of-force cases.
The court confirmed that Masinde had undergone a mental assessment and was declared fit to stand trial. Justice Kimondo directed the accused to file a formal bond application within seven days, with the DPP granted a similar period to respond.
Hearing of the bond application is scheduled for August 19, 2025.
