Septic Tank Murder: Key Witnesses Linked to Sarah Wairimu, Bail Denied
Evidence against Sarah Wairimu, the widow of the late Dutch tycoon Tob Cohen, is strong as key witnesses in her murder case are revealed to be close friends and former employees.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecution has opposed her release on bail, pending the testimony of two crucial witnesses enrolled in the Witness Protection Programme.
Senior Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Vincent Monda, informed the court that the prosecution is ready to present the witnesses for in-camera testimony, after which Wairimu may request a bail review.
Monda stated, “The prosecution has two witnesses under witness protection set to testify in camera. We’ve also submitted an affidavit from Assistant Superintendent of Police Maxwel Otieno, contesting Wairimu’s bail due to potential witness interference. ”
In the affidavit, Mr. Otieno pointed out that several witnesses are intimate acquaintances and former staff members of Wairimu, with some being well-known to her.
He further noted that Wairimu was actively involved in the inquest proceedings and received committal bundles and notifications related to the case.
Authorities are concerned she may try to reach out to witnesses who were her former employees and are not protected.
Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Sarah Ogweno, urged the court to deny Wairimu bail, alleging that she instructed her workers to falsify key facts, which constitutes witness intimidation.
Ogweno informed the court that there are reports of how significant witnesses faced intimidation and threats, necessitating their placement in the Witness Protection Programme.
The police have also requested that Wairimu maintain distance from the deceased’s residence, which remains a crime scene until a court site visit is conducted to investigate how and where Tob Cohen’s body was found.
Wairimu was re-arrested after the DPP, Renson Ingonga, reviewed the murder case and concluded that sufficient evidence exists for the charges against her.
The case is being prosecuted by Counsel ADPP, PC, Peris Maina, and PC, Livia Gachanja. Wairimu is currently held at Lang’ata Women’s Prison while awaiting a bail decision slated for February 18, 2025.
