By Ashley Kariuki
Sarah Wairimu Kamotho, the widow of slain Dutch businessman Tob Cohen, will remain in custody at Lang’ata Women’s Prison after the High Court in Kibera denied her bail for a second time.
In a ruling delivered by Lady Justice Diana Mochache, the court declined the renewed bail application, stating that Wairimu, who is facing murder charges must first demonstrate a change in circumstances to warrant a review of the earlier decision.
“The court, through Lady Justice Diana Mochache, ruled that Sarah Wairimu Kamotho, charged with the murder of Dutch tycoon Tob Cohen, would remain in custody at Langata Women’s Prison until when the defense would demonstrate a change of circumstances to warrant a review of the bail decision,” read the statement from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
The prosecution, led by Acting Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Mr. Vincent Monda, strongly opposed the bail application. He argued that Wairimu had intimidated witnesses, posed a flight risk, and tampered with the crime scene.
“The court found a likelihood of witness interference and flight risk, as Sarah had fraudulently obtained a second passport while the first was in police custody,” the ODPP noted.
Justice Mochache further emphasized that the court had not seen sufficient grounds to revise the initial bail decision.
“The court emphasized the importance of protecting witnesses and the integrity of the criminal justice system,” ODPP added.
However, the court granted permission for the defense team to visit the crime scene. The visit will be conducted under strict conditions to ensure the preservation of crucial evidence.
Wairimu is accused of murdering her husband on July 19, 2019, at their home in the Lower Kabete area of Nairobi County.
The case will be mentioned on July 30, 2025, for further directions.