EACC Arrests Two Over Ksh 296M Education Bursary Scandal.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested two individuals suspected of embezzling Ksh 296 million from the County Government of West Pokot.
These funds, allocated for bursaries and educational infrastructure, were reportedly misappropriated over the course of several financial years, spanning from 2017/2018 to 2021/2022.
Those arrested include Mary Ngoriakes, the former Chief Officer of Education, and Mathew Arusio, the former County Director of Bursary.
The suspects are currently being processed at the EACC North Rift Regional Offices in Eldoret. They are set to be held at Eldoret Central Police Station before their court appearance at the Eldoret Anti-Corruption Court, scheduled for Tuesday, 24th September 2024.
Investigation Findings
The investigation uncovered a scheme led by senior county officials to siphon off Ksh 296 million meant to support underprivileged students.
The theft was facilitated through irregular cash withdrawals and forged documents, including fake meeting minutes.
Officials illegally assumed roles in a County Bursary, Education Development, and Infrastructure Committee (CBC), a committee that had never been legally constituted.
Charges and Prosecution
The EACC submitted its investigation findings to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who approved several charges. These charges include:
- Conspiracy to commit corruption
- Abuse of office
- Fraudulent acquisition of public property
- Creation of false documents
Additional Suspects
Two more suspects linked to the scheme, Simon Kodomuk, the former Chief Officer of Education, and Francil Tikol, the former Assistant County Director of Bursary, remain at large.
The EACC has urged these individuals to report to its North Rift Regional Offices in Eldoret on Tuesday, 24th September 2024.
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The EACC continues to call for public support in its efforts to combat corruption and recover stolen public funds.
The commission remains committed to ensuring accountability and transparency within public institutions.
EACC Arrests Two Over Ksh 296M Education Bursary Scandal.
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