Investigations into a suspected tender scandal in Embu County have intensified after the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission carried out a major raid at the county government offices. The probe centers on an alleged Ksh.95 million deal involving companies said to be linked to county officials and Members of the County Assembly.
Anti-corruption detectives camped at the county headquarters as they pursued claims of conflict of interest. The focus is on three MCAs and several procurement officers who are believed to have played a role in the awarding of tenders. Early findings suggest the MCAs may have had hidden interests in a number of companies that received contracts from the county government.
According to preliminary details shared by Central Regional Manager Japheth Baithalu, investigators extended the operation beyond the offices and raided at least eight homes linked to the suspects. The searches were aimed at gathering more evidence as the commission seeks to understand how the alleged scheme was carried out.
Reports indicate that the three MCAs are suspected to have had beneficial interests in at least eleven companies that were awarded tenders by the county. Detectives believe these companies may have been used to secure contracts unfairly, raising concerns about abuse of office and possible breaches of procurement laws.
Further findings suggest that about Ksh.95 million may have been paid out through contracts that are now under scrutiny. During the raid, investigators spent hours inside county offices collecting key documents. These included procurement records, payment details, and contract files tied to the companies under investigation.
Baithalu said the commission is working to establish whether the MCAs influenced the tender process and if they failed to declare their interests as required by law. While the county government is said to have cooperated with investigators, the operation created tension within the offices as officers secured critical records.
The commission has confirmed that investigations are still ongoing, and any individuals found responsible will face legal action in line with the law.
