The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested an employee of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) on charges related to a fraudulent tender worth Ksh 6 million.

The official is alleged to have awarded the tender to a company owned by her daughter, thereby engaging in a serious conflict of interest. 

The EACC revealed the accused was actively involved in the tender evaluation process, which ultimately led to the award of the contract to her daughter’s firm.

“The Commission, this morning, arrested an employee of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) to face charges over a fraudulent tender worth Ksh 6,436,934.40 awarded to a company owned by her daughter,” read a statement from the EACC.

The staff was apprehended after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) agreed with the Commission’s findings and recommendations for prosecution.

According to the EACC, the suspect will be charged with several offences, including conflict of interest, unlawful acquisition of public property, fraudulent practice in procurement, and uttering false documents. 

The EACC emphasized that her actions contravened multiple legal provisions, particularly those designed to ensure fairness and transparency in public procurement processes. 

“By participating in the evaluation and subsequent awarding of the tender to her daughter's company, she allegedly violated procurement laws and ethical guidelines governing public service,” EACC said in a statement on their official social media platforms.

Following her arrest, the accused was escorted to the Mombasa Anti-Corruption Court, where she was expected to take a plea. 

The case highlights the ongoing efforts by the EACC and other relevant authorities to root out corrupt practices within public institutions and hold those responsible accountable.

“The official, who is suspected to have traded with KPA through her daughter’s company, participated in the tender evaluation process leading to the award,” the EACC stated.

This arrest marks another significant step in the EACC's mission to enforce anti-corruption laws and promote integrity within public service.