The High Court has declined to grant bail to police officer Klinzy Baraza, who is facing trial over the fatal shooting of Boniface Kariuki in Nairobi’s Central Business District. In its ruling, the court said the circumstances surrounding the case were exceptional and had already drawn significant public attention, raising concerns about the safety of the victim’s family and the integrity of the trial process.
Kariuki, a mask vendor, was shot in the head outside Imenti House on June 17, 2025, and later died while receiving treatment in hospital. The court heard that his family has since been subjected to harassment, receiving numerous unsolicited calls and messages, a factor that influenced the judge’s decision.
The judge also noted that Baraza, as a serving law enforcement officer, holds authority and influence that could potentially interfere with witnesses or ongoing investigations. Prosecutors argued that releasing him on bail could pose risks to witnesses, victims, and public order.
Although Baraza told the court he was willing to follow all bail conditions and cited his young family as a reason for his release, the judge ruled that these personal circumstances did not outweigh the risks highlighted by the prosecution.
