Friday, October 25, 2024 - The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested several county officials in Bomet County as part of a sweeping investigation into the alleged embezzlement of Sh1.2 billion.
The operation, which began on Thursday,
involved simultaneous searches of the officials’ residences and offices, aimed
at uncovering fraudulent financial activities linked to public funds
EACC spokesperson Eric Ngumbi confirmed that
the arrested officials are suspected of orchestrating fraudulent payments,
which were allegedly channeled through companies owned by themselves, their
family members, and proxies.
The investigation is centred on allegations of
abuse of office, conflict of interest, and theft involving Sh 373 million in
the procurement of twelve heavy road construction machines and trucks during
the 2022-23 financial year, with a substantial portion of the funds unaccounted
for.
“These officials are believed to have misused
their positions of trust and authority to engage in collusion, resulting in
payments for non-existent or substandard services,” Ngumbi stated. The EACC is
determined to hold accountable those involved in this scandal, which raises
significant concerns about governance and financial integrity within the county
administration.
After the arrests, the suspects were released after providing statements to EACC officials.
The commission reported that the
operation yielded valuable evidence that will support further inquiries.
Investigators are now working to determine the full extent of the alleged
corruption and the mechanisms used to divert public funds for personal gain.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
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