In a significant development in the fight against corruption, Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) officers in the Upper Coast Region have apprehended eight former Tana River County Government officials and a contractor over allegations of irregularly awarding a KSh 9 million tender.
The contentious contract, issued about four years ago, involved fencing wildlife offices and staff quarters in Hola town.
The arrested individuals include high-ranking former officials and staff from various departments of the county government.
Among those in custody are Fatuma Zahra, the former County Chief Officer for Public Service; Abashora Swaleh Salad, a former Principal Supply Chain Management Officer; Ali Dhidha Hussein, a Building Inspector from the Department of Public Works; and Issa Funani Bere, a former Senior Supply Chain Management Officer.

Others implicated in the scandal are Mohamed Natse and Kevin Simiyu Wafula, both supply chain management officers; Fatuma Napasha Hussein-Electro, a casual inspector with the works department; and a director of Al-Karim Agencies, one of the firms awarded the contract.
Arrest Operations
The arrests unfolded in a coordinated operation that spanned multiple locations.
Six of the suspects were apprehended in Malindi on Thursday and detained overnight at the Malindi Police Station.
Early on Friday morning, they were transported under tight security to Hola town.
Meanwhile, two other suspects were arrested in Lamu County and are expected to face similar charges.
EACC Statement
Eric Ngumbi, the Head of the Communication Department at the EACC Headquarters, confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects would be arraigned at the anti-corruption court in Hola town.
“This is part of our ongoing efforts to hold public officials accountable and ensure prudent management of public resources,” Mr. Ngumbi emphasized.
The investigation into the matter revealed irregularities in the procurement process, including the possible misuse of public funds and non-compliance with procurement regulations.
The EACC’s swift action underscores its commitment to addressing corruption in public institutions.
Implications and Next Steps
The arrests mark a critical step in addressing systemic corruption in Tana River County, which has faced scrutiny over its governance practices in recent years.
The suspects are expected to face charges related to abuse of office, failure to adhere to procurement laws, and conspiracy to defraud the county government.
The case highlights the EACC’s intensified crackdown on corruption, particularly in county governments, where allegations of irregular tender awards and mismanagement of public funds are increasingly common.
Public Reaction
The arrests have drawn mixed reactions from residents of Tana River County and beyond.
While some have lauded the EACC for taking decisive action, others are calling for broader investigations to ensure that all involved parties, including other officials and beneficiaries, are held accountable.
As the legal proceedings commence, the public eagerly awaits further details and outcomes, hoping that this case serves as a deterrent against similar practices in the future.