A former senior official of the Social Health Authority (SHA) is among nine individuals arrested in an ongoing investigation into alleged financial irregularities within the institution. The arrests mark the latest phase of a nationwide crackdown on suspected corruption and malpractice in the management of public health funds.
According to investigators, the suspects are accused of breaching established financial and operational procedures within SHA. They are linked to the submission of falsified documents and irregular claims related to health services under the Social Health Insurance (SHI) framework.
The individuals were taken into custody ahead of their scheduled appearance before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Milimani, Nairobi. Authorities confirmed that the investigations into four separate cases have been concluded, with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions approving them for prosecution.
Among those arrested are former senior SHA officials and finance officers suspected of authorising irregular payments to health facilities. In one instance, a facility reportedly received payments months before its contract had been formally signed, raising questions about compliance with financial protocols.
Investigators revealed that another former SHA official remains at large and is being sought to assist with ongoing inquiries. The arrested suspects are being held in custody pending their court appearances.
The operation extends beyond Nairobi, with arrests also reported in Homa Bay County. In one case, health workers at two medical facilities were detained over alleged irregular claims amounting to approximately Sh17.6 million. At a public hospital in Rachuonyo East Sub-County, three employees were accused of falsifying health records, while another was arrested at a separate facility over similar offences.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations emphasized that the operation aims to protect public funds, reinforce accountability, and strengthen transparency in implementing Kenya’s universal health coverage agenda. The ongoing crackdown, officials said, is part of a broader strategy to restore integrity and public trust in the country’s healthcare financing system.
