The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has conducted a major raid at the Embu County Government over an alleged Ksh95 million tender scandal involving multiple companies linked to county officials and Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).
Anti-corruption detectives camped at the county headquarters as investigations intensified into a suspected conflict of interest implicating three MCAs and several procurement officers.
Multiple Homes Raided
According to preliminary findings presented by EACC Central Regional Manager Japheth Baithalu, the commission extended the operation beyond county offices, raiding at least eight homes linked to the MCAs and procurement officials.
Investigators believe the suspects may have had beneficial interests in several companies that were awarded county tenders.
Suspected Conflict of Interest
Initial investigations indicate that the three MCAs are linked to at least 11 companies that received contracts from the county government.
Detectives suspect the firms may have been used as conduits to secure lucrative tenders, raising serious concerns over abuse of office, conflict of interest, and violations of public procurement laws.
Further findings suggest that approximately Ksh95 million may have been paid out through the irregularly awarded contracts.
Documents Seized
During the raid, EACC officers spent hours inside county offices collecting critical documents, including procurement records, payment details, and contract files associated with the suspected companies.
Baithalu said the commission is working to establish the extent to which the MCAs may have influenced the award of tenders and whether they failed to declare their interests as required by law.
Investigations Ongoing
While the Embu County Government is reported to have cooperated with investigators, the operation caused tension within the offices as detectives moved to secure key evidence.
The EACC has confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with legal action expected against any individuals found culpable.
