Ten Turkana County officials in custody over alleged embezzlement of Sh600 million
Several county officials have been accused of using their positions to trade with the county through various companies, resulting in over Sh600 million in payments for the alleged procurement of goods and services.
Ten senior officials from the County Government of Turkana have been arrested by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over allegations of embezzling Sh600 million intended for development projects.
According to EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud, the funds were misappropriated between the financial years 2022/2023 and 2023/2024.
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The arrested individuals include County Executive Committee Member for Finance Michael Eregae Ekidor, Chief Officer for Municipalities and Urban Management Peter Lomurukai, Chief Officer for Roads and Transport Mark Achila Ekiru, Director of Procurement Samson Nakito and Senior Accountant Lillian Alaper Ateyo.
Also arrested were Cleaning Supervisor for Turkana County Annah Narot Longoli, her spouse John Tioko Ekal, Security Warden for Turkana County Abenyo Amathwel Etiir, former Assistant Director of Accounting Stephen Lowoton, businessman William Erex Aminit and businessman Nangiro Edung Ichor.
EACC said the individuals were arrested on Thursday after an investigation initiated by public complaints. The investigation revolves around allegations of embezzlement, conflict of interest, and abuse of office.
“The suspects are alleged to have abused their positions of trust and authority to embezzle public funds through collusion, procurement fraud, bribery and payment for fictitious contracts,” Abdi said.
Several county officials have been accused of using their positions to trade with the county through various companies, resulting in over Sh600 million in payments for the alleged procurement of goods and services.
The EACC also alleges that Michael Eregae Ekidor has amassed significant wealth, assets, and income during his tenure as Finance Executive.
The suspects are believed to have abused their authority by engaging in procurement fraud, collusion, bribery, and the payment for fictitious contracts.
During the operation, EACC said it recovered Sh6.5 million in cash from Michael Eregae’s vehicle, suspected to be proceeds of corruption.
Abdi said the suspects would be escorted to government offices in Lodwar to record statements.
He noted that the Commission had previously obtained court orders on March 3, 2025, freezing Sh180 million in bank accounts belonging to Abenyo Amathwel Etiir, a Security Warden at the County Government and his associated companies.
Abdi said that once the inquiry is concluded, the findings will determine the appropriate action, which may include prosecution, the recovery of unexplained wealth and the pursuit of proceeds of corruption.
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