The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has intensified its operations in Busia after the arrest of Land Registrar Collins Aiela Liyayi, who was caught demanding and receiving a bribe of Sh10,000 from a complainant.
Investigations revealed that the money was solicited as a condition for releasing a processed title deed which the registrar had deliberately withheld, describing the payment as “release fees.”
The cash had been treated by the commission, and he was arrested immediately after receiving it.
According to officials, the arrest followed growing complaints from members of the public who accused the registrar of turning the Lands Registry into a place where bribes had to be paid for services that were meant to be free.
Reports indicated that the withholding of title deeds had become a common practice, forcing residents to part with money in exchange for documents that should have been issued without conditions.
Acting on the complaints, the commission mounted a surveillance operation that eventually led to the arrest.
Collins Liyali. Photo Courtesy/EACC/X
Once in custody, Liyayi was escorted to the EACC Western Regional Office in Bungoma for processing before being booked at Bungoma Police Station.
Officials confirmed that he would face further legal steps, including possible arraignment, once the necessary paperwork was completed.
The move was described as part of an ongoing campaign by the commission to reduce corruption in public offices, especially in departments that provide critical services to ordinary citizens.
EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud explained that the institution has increased its intelligence-gathering activities in order to identify officials who exploit their positions.
He noted that particular attention is being given to offices such as lands, licensing, and other areas where public demand for services is high and the temptation for bribery is common.
Mohamud emphasized that corruption in these areas not only burdens citizens financially but also undermines trust in government institutions.
The arrest in Busia adds to a growing list of public officials who have been apprehended across the country in recent months.
According to the commission, several cases have already been taken to court, while others remain under investigation as evidence is gathered.
Officials believe that regular arrests and prosecutions will send a strong signal to public servants that corruption will not be tolerated.
Mohamud reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to pursue every complaint, stressing that they will not relent in their efforts to clean up public institutions.
He added that members of the public have a role to play by reporting incidents of bribery and cooperating with investigators.
Through combined effort, he said, it is possible to achieve better service delivery and restore confidence in public offices.
