The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested the Head of Liquor Licensing in Githunguri Sub-County, Kiambu County for demanding a Ksh40,000 bribe from a shop operator.
The Kiambu County employee demanded the money after accusing the store owner of flouting Kiambu county government guidelines.
Accompanied by other colleagues, the county staff in their extortion scheme carted away some goods from the shop which they told the owner would be returned after paying the money demanded.
EACC in their statement said that cases of extortion by public officials in Kiambu have been on the rise which pushed them to act.
The proprietor reported the case to EACC following pressure from the corrupt officials who made away with stock worth thousands after the raid.
Initially, the owner tried to resolve the matter amicably but was dismissed by the county staff who wanted money before they could be cleared to operate.
Further attempts were met with threats to cancel the shop's license, which pushed the owner to reach out to EACC over the matter.
It was not immediately clear whether the county official colluded with local police to frustrate the business.
Business people have in recent years complained of increased extortion from corrupt officials who demand huge bribes that most traders cannot afford.
"I closed my wines and spirits because of the same. You put that business, those people enjoy the profit. They have suppressed many businesses in Kiambu," a Kenyan said commenting on the arrest.
Another Kenyan also noted that the intimidation by officials has been so much, pushing many people out of business.
"I stopped operating such a business because of such kind of officers. Threats and intimidations. The Kiambu officer should be suspended on half pay pending determination by the court. Enjoin all other affected parties in her jurisdiction. If there is one affected, there is more," a Chris Kariuki said.
