The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on Tuesday reportedly arrested the Tanathi Water Works Development Agency (TWWDA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) over allegations of involvement in procurement fraud.
In a statement, EACC officers disclosed the suspect was arrested for alleged fraud relating to a Ksh 292,770,465 tender for the construction of the Kinanie Leather Industrial Park Water Supply Project.
The commission noted it was also pursuing 8 other top officials who were also accused of involvement in the fraud case.
According to the commission, it commenced investigations in 2022 after receiving complaints that top officials of Tanathi Water Works Development Agency had embezzled public funds.
EACC detectives noted the suspects allegedly embezzled Ksh292,770,465 through fraudulent schemes in the award of tenders to companies linked to them.
“Upon conclusion of the investigations, the Commission submitted the file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) who upon independent review concurred with the Commission's recommendations,” EACC detectives noted.
Among the charges that were preferred against the nine accused include conspiracy to commit an offence of corruption and abuse of office.
They were also charged with willful failure to comply with the law relating to procurement, conflict of interest and fraudulent acquisition of public property.
“He was held at EACC Integrity Centre Police Station and this morning escorted to Kitui Anti-Corruption Court where he is expected to take a plea,” EACC officers noted.
“The Commission is pursuing the remaining eight suspects who are yet to be arrested.”
EACC detectives directed the eight suspects to report to the Anti-Corruption Commission headquarters located at the Integrity Centre building by June 26.
"Commission hereby directs the suspects to report to EACC Headquarters located at the Integrity Centre Building, or the nearest EACC Regional Office, by Wednesday, 26th June 2024, at 8:00 am, without fail," the Anti Corruption Commission ordered.
