Many migrant workers passing through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport have been facing delays and unnecessary demands during the clearance process, and this concern has now led to the arrest of two officials from the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
The officers were taken into custody by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission after accusations that they were running an extortion scheme targeting workers seeking jobs abroad.
Their arrest followed growing complaints from migrant workers who said they were being asked for bribes before their documents could be processed.
According to the EACC, the two officials were caught at the airport while allegedly receiving money from a worker who needed clearance for foreign employment. Detectives had been monitoring the labour desks for some time after receiving reports that corruption had become a regular issue for those trying to travel for work.
The commission explained that the officers were stopped in the middle of what they believed was another attempt to extort money from a vulnerable worker.
An EACC spokesperson confirmed that cash and several pieces of evidence were recovered and would be used to support the case in court.
Investigators believe the scheme involved demanding payments ranging from KSh 5,000 to KSh 20,000 from migrant workers who needed essential government documents before travelling.
Many of these workers were heading to Middle Eastern countries and were afraid of missing their flights or losing job opportunities if they refused to pay. This fear created an opportunity for dishonest officials to take advantage, leaving workers feeling trapped and helpless during a very important stage of their journey.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection responded by assuring the public that it would fully support the EACC investigation.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Florence Bore stated that the ministry does not tolerate corruption and will take strict action against any staff found to be involved in unethical practices.
She emphasised that government offices must protect workers, not exploit them, and that any official who misuses their position will face disciplinary consequences.
The two officials remain in custody as the EACC continues to put together the evidence needed for prosecution.
They are expected to be charged in court once the initial stages of the investigation are complete.
For many Kenyans seeking jobs abroad, this case now highlights the urgent need to clean up processes at key government points so that genuine workers can pursue opportunities without fear of harassment, exploitation, or financial extortion.
