Police officer Klinzy Barasa denies killing hawker Boniface Kariuki

Police officer Klinzy Barasa has pleaded not guilty to killing mask vendor Boniface Kariuki on July 17.

Barasa, who appeared before High Court Judge Kanyi Kimondo, is accused of fatally shooting Kariuki during a protest in which police were deployed to disperse demonstrators.

The prosecution opposed his release on bail arguing that he was likely to interfere with witnesses, some of whom are said to be fellow officers who witnessed the shooting.

It warned that he could exploit his knowledge of police systems and communication data to track or intimidate witnesses.

The prosecution further told the court that the accused poses a flight risk and that his release could trigger public unrest, given the national outrage sparked by Kariuki’s death.

It maintained that releasing him at this stage could undermine public confidence in the justice system, amid ongoing concerns about excessive use of force by police.

Justice Kimondo directed the accused to file a formal bond application within seven days, with the DPP granted a similar period to respond.

Barasa will remain in custody until August 19, when the court is expected to rule on the bail application.