Klinzy Barasa Masinde, the police officer who was caught on camera shooting the late mask vendor Boniface Kariuki, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of the hawker.
The officer was appearing before Justice Kanyi Kimondo on July 28 and suffered another blow after the prosecution opposed his bond application.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) urged the court to deny the 32-year-old constable bond and remand him pending the full hearing and determination of the case.
ODPP opposes release of officer Klinzy Barasa on bond. Photo: Courtesy.
Masinde pleading not guilty means that he will have to undergo a full trial.
The court confirmed that Masinde had undergone a mental assessment and was declared fit to stand trial.
The prosecution highlighted the defendant’s position as a police officer, providing him access to resources he could use to intimidate the witnesses and fellow officers.
They moreover cited his technical knowledge and access to sensitive information, including communication data, as tools he could use to trace or intimidate witnesses.
Another concern raised by the prosecution is that Masinde is a flight risk and might skip court hearings.
The court further heard that his release could incite public unrest and endanger his own safety, given widespread public outrage over the incident.
Klinzy Barasa Masinde has been charged with murder.
