Sarah Wairimu denied bail in Tob Cohen murder case

The Kibera High Court in Nairobi on Tuesday denied Sarah Wairimu Cohen bail in the murder case of businessman Tob Cohen after the prosecution opposed her release.

Wairimu, the widow of the late Dutch tycoon, is alleged to have murdered her husband on July 19, 2019, in Nairobi’s Lower Kabete area.

Lady Justice Diana Kavedza ruled that the prosecution proved with sufficient evidence the likelihood of witness intimidation and interference.

The court stated that Sarah's case is of public interest where a life was lost in the most heinous manner.

“It is my considered view therefore that the principle of justice and public interest out-weigh the accused’s right to liberty at this stage,” ruled Justice Kavedza, adding that the court must safeguard the trial's integrity by protecting witnesses and preventing potential interference.

Wairimu was re-arrested after the Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Ingonga, reviewed the murder case and determined that there was sufficient evidence to charge her with murder.

The matter will be mentioned on February 26, 2025, for pre-trial directions.