The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched an operation aimed at apprehending those responsible for attacking Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) officers and obstructing their lawful search at the residence of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.
The EACC officers had obtained a search warrant to investigate Governor Natembeya’s involvement in a procurement deal worth Ksh1.4 billion. The probe focuses on allegations of irregular procurement and fictitious payments involving the Trans Nzoia County Government during the financial years 2022/2023 and 2024/2025. The search targeted the governor’s home and office, as well as the properties of four other individuals implicated in the case.
Initially, the search operation proceeded without incident, conducted in the presence of the governor’s family members, county attorney, and legal representatives. However, the situation quickly escalated when a group of hostile individuals stormed the premises, disrupting the process. This rowdy group forcibly entered the property, overpowering the security personnel assigned to protect the operation.
During the chaos, the group caused extensive damage to five EACC vehicles parked at the scene. Additionally, they stole some of the items that had been seized during the search as well as other valuables from the vehicles. The destruction and theft not only hindered the investigation but also represented a direct attack on the officers carrying out their official duties.
The DCI has condemned the incident, describing it as a blatant attempt to obstruct justice and undermine the rule of law. The attack on the EACC officers was not only an assault on individuals conducting a lawful investigation but also a challenge to the entire justice system. The deliberate destruction of government property and theft of seized items further aggravate the situation, making it clear that the perpetrators aimed to interfere with the ongoing investigation.
In response to the attack, the DCI has initiated a comprehensive investigation to identify all those involved in the violent incident. The law enforcement agency has vowed to bring every person responsible for the assault and obstruction to justice. The operation to track down the attackers is already underway, with officers working tirelessly to ensure that the perpetrators face appropriate legal consequences.
Governor Natembeya later addressed the public in Kakagema, a message that came amid the fallout from the raid and subsequent attack. The situation highlights the tense environment surrounding the investigation and the high stakes involved in the allegations against the county government.
The case centers around serious accusations of irregularities in procurement processes within Trans Nzoia County. The procurement deal under scrutiny involves a substantial amount of public funds, raising concerns about corruption and mismanagement. The probe aims to uncover any illicit activities and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
This violent disruption poses a serious challenge to the authorities’ efforts to enforce accountability and fight corruption at the county level. It also raises broader questions about the safety and security of officers tasked with investigating powerful political figures and high-profile cases.
The DCI’s determination to pursue justice despite the attack sends a strong message that attempts to thwart investigations through violence or intimidation will not be tolerated. Upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served remains a priority, regardless of the challenges faced.
As the investigation progresses, it is expected that more details about the attack and the individuals involved will emerge. The commitment by law enforcement to bring perpetrators to book is crucial in reinforcing public trust in the justice system and in demonstrating that no one is above the law.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in anti-corruption efforts and the importance of protecting officers and officials who carry out these essential duties. The ongoing operation by the DCI underscores the necessity of a coordinated and resolute response to acts that threaten justice and accountability in the country.
