A police officer assigned to Safaricom CEO’s VIP security team has been charged with murder after a bar fight in Ruaraka.

Officer charged in court

Ezekiel Kipkoech Tarus appeared before Justice James Wakiaga at Milimani Court on Tuesday where he was formally charged with the murder of Raphael Kimuli Wambua, a police officer attached to the Central Bank of Kenya.

What happened on the night of the shooting?

According to prosecutors, the incident happened on February 23, 2025. The deceased and his brother, Erick Ngolania Wambua, a police officer stationed at the GSU headquarters were watching football and drinking at Wasafi Bar.

At around 1:20 a.m., as they were leaving, Tarus confronted them. He allegedly shot Raphael Kimuli using his Jericho pistol, serial number 44338440.

Angry mob attacks the suspect

After the shooting, an angry crowd attacked Tarus. Police officers from Ruaraka station arrived in time to rescue him. He was taken to Kenyatta National Hospital for treatment.

Court battle over bail

The prosecution initially wanted Tarus detained for 14 days to allow further investigations. However, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) later directed that he face formal murder charges.

Tarus, represented by lawyers Danstan Omari and Shadrack Wambui, pleaded not guilty. His lawyers argued that there was no reason to deny him bail.

Court grants bail with conditions

Justice Wakiaga granted him a cash bail of Ksh.500,000 or a surety of the same amount. The court ordered him not to contact witnesses. He must also report to the investigating officer every Thursday.

Case set for hearing

The court scheduled the case hearing for May 20, 2025. The trial will determine whether Tarus is guilty of the charges.