The Ethics and Anti Corruption Commision (EACC) on Saturday, stated that it was investigating a private developer who grabbed part of Kibiku Forest in Ngong, Kajiado to build a palatial home.
Reports alleged that the developer fenced nearly three acres near the Kenya Institute of Buildings and Highway Technology, forcing the institution and other stakeholders to raise the alarm.
In response to an uproar that ensued after an article of the incident was published online by a local media house, EACC added that plans to trace the developer and unravel the mystery of the case was underway.
However, it did not divulge whether detectives were deployed to raid the forest or summoned the developer for grilling.
"The Commission is in receipt of these allegations and is looking into the same in accordance with its mandate of tracing and recovering stolen public property," EACC stated.
Speaking in Kwale on Monday, October 9, after reclaiming land at Chale Island, EACC Chief Executive Officer Twalib Mbarak emphasised the commission's dedication to recover both public and private land seized by unscrupulous individuals.
EACC Chief Executive Officer Twalib Mbarak noted the commission's dedication to restoring all unlawfully acquired land to its rightful owners.
"We earnestly call upon the vigilance of the Kenya Wildlife Service, Kwale Governor, and the Government, as the culprits behind these land grabs remain at large," he asserted to the media.
Meanhwile, last month, Kajiado residents demonstrated against land grabbing cases at the Kibiku forest.
According to the protesters, private developers worked in cahoots with rogue Kenya Forest Service (KFS) officers to grab land in the area.
In January this year, the government listed the Kibiko land as a no go zone, arguing that it was a security threat after tensions ensued over a grabbed 2,700-acre piece of prime land.
"This land is becoming a security threat. We will not tolerate any nuisance that is likely to turn bloody. I send a stern warning to the rogue cartels illegally visiting the area to stop or go there at their own peril. We will also consider that as trespass," Kajiado West Deputy County Commissioner Morang'a Morekwa warned.
"Government is in control to ensure justice prevails and only rightful owners benefit. The warring factions should know that there is the rule of law and land is not subdivided at individual's will without following the due process," he added.
