Anti-Counterfeit Authority chair charged with soliciting Sh5 million bribe to shield businessman
The prosecution claims the money was sought on the understanding that the ACA boss would not arrest or charge the complainant over allegations of dealing in counterfeit automotive parts.
A senior government official has been charged in a Nairobi court with soliciting a Sh5 million bribe to allegedly protect a businessman from arrest and prosecution for trading in counterfeit motor vehicle spare parts.
Josphat Gichunge Kabeabea, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), was on Tuesday arraigned before Milimani Anticorruption Chief Magistrate Charles Ondiek. He faced a charge of receiving a bribe contrary to Section 6(1)(a), as read with Section 18 of the Anti-Bribery Act, 2023.
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According to the charge sheet, Kabeabea is accused of requesting a financial advantage of Sh5 million from one Du Zhisheng on November 11, 2025.
The prosecution claims the money was sought on the understanding that the ACA boss would not arrest or charge the complainant over allegations of dealing in counterfeit automotive parts.
Kabeabea denied the charges and asked the court for lenient bond terms.
Prosecutors, however, urged the court to impose strict conditions, arguing that the accused holds a powerful public office and may interfere with witnesses.
Magistrate Ondiek released Kabeabea on a Sh2 million bond with surety. Alternatively, he may secure release by depositing a Sh1 million cash bail.
The court further directed the prosecution to provide all witness statements and evidence to the defence within 14 days. Kabeabea was also required to deposit his passport in court within the same period and was barred from contacting or interfering with witnesses.
The case will be mentioned on December 8 for further directions and to confirm compliance with the disclosure orders.
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