The Kenya Police Service (KPS) has issued a public advisory clarifying how cash bail works.

In a statement issued via X on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, the law enforcement agency emphasised that cash bail is a refundable security deposit and not a fine, as commonly misunderstood by members of the public.

In the guidance shared to improve public awareness and transparency in policing procedures, the service explained that cash bail is primarily used to guarantee that an accused person reports back to the police station or appears in court as required.

“Did you know that cash bail is not a fine, but a refundable deposit? It serves as a guarantee that an accused person will return to the station or appear in court as required,” KPS stated.

Cash bail refund process

According to the advisory, cash bail is fully refundable provided the accused person complies with all reporting conditions and attends all required court appearances.

“If all dates are honored and the accused appears before the court, you are entitled to get 100% of your money back,” the statement noted.

The clarification aims to address widespread confusion among suspects and members of the public who often assume cash bail is a non-refundable penalty.

The KPS also stressed the importance of obtaining an official Police 18A receipt when making any cash bail payments.

The receipt serves as the only valid proof of payment and is required when processing refunds.

The service further advised the public to keep receipts safely after payment, take a photo or digital copy immediately for backup, and ensure documentation is not lost or damaged.

Lost cash bail receipt procedure

In cases where the receipt is lost, the police explained that individuals must take additional steps before claiming a refund.

These include swearing an Affidavit of Loss before a Commissioner for Oaths and obtaining a Police Abstract to support the claim.

Authorities say these measures are necessary to prevent fraud and ensure proper record verification.

“Always demand an official Police 18A receipt, which is your only proof of payment. If you lose it, you will need to swear a legal Affidavit of Loss before a Commissioner for Oaths and obtain a Police Abstract to claim your refund. For extra caution, take a photo of the receipt immediately to have a digital backup,” the statement read.

The clarification comes at a time when reforms in the justice and policing systems continue to be a topic of public interest.

By outlining how cash bail works and how refunds are processed, authorities hope to build greater public confidence in law enforcement procedures while ensuring compliance with legal requirements.