EACC Arrests MCA and Two Former County Officials Over Alleged Sh51.4 Million Fraud

Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested a Member of County Assembly (MCA) from Garissa County together with two former senior county government officials over an alleged fraud involving Sh51.4 million.

According to the commission, the three suspects were picked up after investigations linked them to irregular payments made by the Garissa County Government. 

Detectives believe the money was lost through The questionable procurement deals and payments for services that were either not delivered or were inflated.

In a statement, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission said the arrests followed months of investigations into how public funds were spent in the county.

The agency noted that it had gathered enough evidence to charge the three in court.

The MCA, whose name has not yet been officially released to the public, is accused of working closely with the two former county officials to influence the approval and payment of the funds.

Investigators claim that the payments did not follow proper procedures set out in public finance and procurement laws.

The anti-graft body explained that the alleged scheme involved abuse of office and conspiracy to defraud the county government.

It is believed that some contracts were awarded irregularly, while others were processed without proper documentation or proof of work done.

Sources close to the investigation say the Sh51.4 million was paid out in phases, raising suspicion after internal audits flagged inconsistencies.

The matter was later reported to the EACC, which began a detailed review of financial records, payment vouchers, and bank transactions linked to the suspects.

The three were taken in for questioning before being processed for arraignment. The EACC confirmed that they are expected to appear in court to face charges related to corruption, abuse of office, and fraudulent acquisition of public funds.

The arrests have sparked reactions in Garissa County, with residents expressing mixed feelings.

Some locals have welcomed the move, saying it sends a strong message that misuse of public money will not be tolerated.

Others have called for speedy investigations and fair trials to ensure justice is served.

Corruption cases involving county governments have been a concern across the country in recent years.

Oversight agencies have repeatedly warned that misuse of public funds affects service delivery, especially in sectors such as health, water, roads, and education.

The EACC has urged public officers to uphold integrity and follow the law when handling public resources.

The commission also encouraged members of the public to report suspected corruption to help safeguard taxpayer money.