Court denies Sarah Wairimu bail over witness intimidation claims

The High Court has denied bail to Sarah Wairimu, who is accused of orchestrating the murder of her husband, Tob Cohen, in 2019.

Justice Diana Kavedza ruled on Tuesday that Wairimu would remain in custody at Lang'ata Women’s Prison until two key protected prosecution witnesses testify.

In her ruling, Justice Kavedza cited the risk of witness interference as a primary reason for denying bail.

The judge noted that the prosecution had presented evidence showing that Wairimu or her associates had attempted to intimidate crucial witnesses in the case, some of whom were employees of the accused and the late Cohen.

“The prosecution has provided sufficient grounds to show a real likelihood of interference with witnesses,” Justice Kavedza said.

“I decline the accused’s application for bail. She shall remain in custody until two key witnesses have testified.”

The court's decision follows concerns from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who argued that Wairimu’s release could undermine the trial’s integrity. 

The prosecution contended that Wairimu had previously made attempts to influence witnesses' testimony, including individuals who were directly involved with both Wairimu and Cohen.

Defense lawyer Conrad Maloba argued that Wairimu had been out on bail for years without incident and had not interfered with witnesses.

Maloba also challenged the request for Wairimu to vacate the matrimonial home, claiming that she had been living there since 2022, long after Cohen's death.

Wairimu faces charges related to the brutal murder of her husband, whose body was found in a septic tank at the couple's home in July 2019.

The prosecution plans to rely on the testimony of two protected witnesses to support its case.