The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has intensified its crackdown on graft within county governments, executing search warrants at the homes and offices of four senior Garissa County officials linked to the irregular award of contracts worth Kes1.2 billion.
Among those targeted on Wednesday early-morning operation was the Head of County Treasury, Mr. Abdi Ali Nuriye. Other officials of interest include:
- Mohamed Daud Korow – Chief Finance Officer
- Mohamed Abdi Hassan – Director, Supply Chain Management
- Abdiwahab Omar Guye – Former Director, Procurement
The operation, which was conducted simultaneously at multiple locations, is part of ongoing investigations into procurement irregularities within the County Government of Garissa.
According to EACC, the investigations cover several key projects, including:
- The construction of a terminal wing at Garissa Airstrip
- The construction of a perimeter wall and pavilion at Garissa Primary School
- Provision of medical insurance services
- Provision of catering services for county officials
- Payment of salaries to ghost workers within the county government
EACC said the projects under scrutiny were under questionable circumstances, with concerns about inflated costs,lack of competitive bidding and potential collusion among officials.The September 17, operation led to the recovery of critical documents and digital evidence believed to be instrumental in unraveling the scandal.
“The recovered materials will support ongoing investigations and upon conclusion, findings will guide the appropriate course of action, including prosecution of individuals found culpable, forfeiture of unexplained assets, and confiscation of proceeds of corruption,” the Commission stated.
The anti-graft body reiterated its commitment to holding public officials accountable and safeguarding taxpayer funds, stressing that corruption at the county level denies citizens essential services and undermines development.
“We remain committed to combating corruption and ensuring accountability in the management of public resources,” the Commission reiterated.
“Public officials must understand that misuse of taxpayer money will not go unpunished,”the commission added.
This latest move is part of a broader effort by EACC to curb misuse of public resources in devolved units.
The Commission has urged counties to strengthen internal controls and ensure transparency in procurement processes.
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