Top Sports Ministry Officials Under Probe in Sh3.8 Billion Graft Case

Kenya’s sports sector has been rocked by a high-profile corruption scandal after two senior officials from the State Department for Sports were named among five suspects being investigated by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). The group is accused of embezzling Sh3.8 billion in public funds meant for sports development.

On Wednesday, November 5, EACC detectives conducted simultaneous raids in Nairobi, Nanyuki, Machakos, Kiambu, and Nyeri counties. The searches, authorized by court warrants, targeted the suspects’ offices and residences as part of a probe into fraudulent procurement activities.

Among those under investigation are a Senior Assistant Commissioner of Sports, an accountant from the department, the Deputy Accountant General for ASALs and Regional Development, and directors of Turkenya Tours & Safaris Limited and Smart Flows Travel Limited.

Millions Recovered as EACC Uncovers Critical Evidence

EACC reports indicate that the suspects allegedly conspired to divert funds through fake procurement contracts between the 2020/2021 and 2025/2026 financial years. During the operation, investigators recovered approximately Sh3.58 million in cash, vehicle logbooks, property documents, and several high-end cars believed to have been acquired using proceeds from the fraudulent scheme.

“The suspects are believed to have colluded to siphon public funds through fictitious procurement deals,” the EACC said in a statement quoted by The Standard. “The operation has produced key evidence that will aid ongoing investigations.”

The individuals were later taken to the EACC headquarters at Integrity Centre in Nairobi for interrogation. According to the agency, the outcome of the investigation will determine whether charges will be filed and if any unlawfully obtained assets will be confiscated.

This latest scandal has reignited concerns about corruption and weak accountability mechanisms in Kenya’s sports sector. Stakeholders warn that persistent graft continues to cripple sports development and erode public confidence in national sporting institutions.