The Kibera High Court on Tuesday, February 18 denied Sarah Wairimu Cohen — the widow of the late Dutch tycoon Tob Cohen — bond after the prosecution opposed her release.
Lady Justice Diana Kavedza directed that Wairimu be remanded at Langata Women’s Prison until two key witnesses testify in the tycoon’s murder case, in which she is the prime suspect.
In her ruling, Justice Kavedza noted that the prosecution proved with sufficient evidence the likelihood of witness intimidation and interference if Wairimu is released on bail.
She stated that Wairimu’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.
She further stated that the court must safeguard the trials integrity’ by protecting witnesses and preventing potential interference.
Wairimu is alleged to have murdered her husband on the 19th of July 2019 in Lower Kabete area within Nairobi County.
She was re-arrested after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga reviewed the murder case and determined that there was sufficient evidence to charge her with the offense.
The matter will be mentioned on 26th February 2025 for pre trial directions.
