A Kenyan police officer accused of fatally shooting a street hawker in broad daylight has denied the murder charge, even as prosecutors urged the court not to grant him bail.
Klinzy Barasa Masinde, 32, appeared before Justice Kanyi Kimondo on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty to the killing of Boniface Kariuki, whose death sparked public outrage after video footage of the shooting circulated widely online.
Masinde, who has been charged with murder, stood quietly in the dock as state prosecutors laid out their objections to his release on bond.
"He’s a Risk," Says ODPP
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) argued that releasing Masinde on bail would pose serious risks—to witnesses, public trust, and even the officer’s own safety.
“He has access to sensitive tools and systems that could be used to track or intimidate witnesses,” prosecutors said, pointing to his role as a police officer. They added that Masinde had both the knowledge and the means to interfere with investigations.
They also claimed that Masinde could flee, describing him as a flight risk. Beyond that, the ODPP warned that his release might fuel unrest among members of the public, who remain angered by the shooting.
“A release at this point could undermine confidence in the justice system,” read a statement issued by the DPP’s office. “Especially given the backdrop of ongoing concerns around police conduct and accountability.”
Fitness to Stand Trial Confirmed
Before entering his plea, Masinde underwent a mental health evaluation and was declared fit to stand trial.
The shooting, which took place earlier this year, was captured in disturbing footage showing an officer discharging his weapon at close range. The video quickly went viral, fuelling protests and calls for justice from civil rights groups, religious leaders, and political figures.
The ODPP said it is treating the case with urgency, stressing that law enforcement officers must be held to the highest standards.
Bail Hearing Set for August
Justice Kimondo directed the defence team to file its formal bail application within seven days. The ODPP will then have an equal period to respond before the matter is heard in court on 19 August.
Meanwhile, Masinde remains in custody.
The case has reignited debate around police violence and accountability in Kenya. Critics argue that officers accused of abusing their power too often escape serious consequences. Others, however, warn against rushing to judgement, saying the officer deserves a fair trial.
For now, all eyes are on the courtroom—where the first steps toward justice are slowly unfolding.
