Three officials linked to the County Government of Garissa have been taken into custody as investigations continue into an alleged fraud case involving Sh51.4 million.
The arrests were carried out by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission as part of a probe into suspected irregular payments from county funds.
Those arrested include Abdi Ibrahim Daar, a serving Member of County Assembly for Balambala Ward. Also detained were Mohamud Dubow Korane, a former Director of Accounting Services in the county government, and Yussuf Bethe Ali, a former Senior Principal Economist.
According to officials, the three were arrested on February 22, 2026, after investigations pointed to possible fraudulent payments amounting to Sh51.4 million.
Authorities said the suspects were expected to appear before the Garissa Law Courts for plea taking.
The court process is set to determine the charges they will face and allow the legal system to take its course. By law, the accused persons remain innocent until proven guilty in court.
Investigators believe the payments under review were made irregularly from county accounts. The details of how the money was processed and who benefited are expected to be part of the evidence to be presented in court. The anti-graft agency has not ruled out further action if more individuals are found to have been involved in the matter.
The latest arrests form part of wider efforts by the commission to address corruption within county governments. In recent months, the agency has stepped up operations in different parts of the country as it responds to growing concerns over the misuse of public funds.
Officials say corruption cases are being reported at both national and county levels, prompting deeper investigations.
Sources familiar with the matter indicate that several other cases are still under active review. The commission is said to be handling dozens of files involving suspected financial misconduct in public offices. These investigations aim to promote accountability and ensure that public resources are used for the benefit of citizens.
The outcome of the Garissa case is likely to attract attention as residents and leaders follow the court proceedings closely.
The anti-corruption body has maintained that it will continue pursuing individuals suspected of misusing public funds, regardless of their position, as part of its mandate to safeguard public resources.
