The Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) has opposed the bond release of Police Constable Klinzy Barasa Masinde, who is facing murder charges.
Appearing before Justice Kanyi Kimondo, DPP noted that Klinzy is an active police officer and has access to firearms and could influence witnesses who include fellow police officers.
They continued by informing the court that he could access sensitive information that could hinder the case.
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“The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has opposed the release on bond of Klinzy Barasa Masinde, a 32-year-old police constable charged with the murder of Bonface Kariuki.
Appearing before Justice Kanyi Kimondo, the DPP urged the court to deny the accused bond pending the full hearing and determination of the case. Masinde has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Prosecution argued that Masinde’s position as a serving police officer grants him significant authority, access to firearms, and the ability to influence potential witnesses, including fellow officers who allegedly witnessed the fatal shooting.
They further cited his technical knowledge and access to sensitive information, including communication data, as tools he could use to trace or intimidate witnesses.
In addition to the risk of witness interference, the Prosecution raised concerns that Masinde poses a flight risk. The court was also told that his release could incite public unrest and endanger his own safety, given widespread public outrage over the incident.
The DPP maintained that releasing him at this stage could undermine public confidence in the justice system, especially amid ongoing concerns about police accountability in use-of-force cases.” said ODPP
The court informed both parties that the accused underwent a mental assessment, which proved he was fit to stand trial. The judge called on the defense counsel to submit their bond application within seven days.
