The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has confirmed the arrest of 27 individuals from Trans Nzoia County over allegations of obstruction of duty.

In a statement on Tuesday June 3, 2024, EACC reported that some senior officials linked to Governor Natembeya were arrested outside the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi.

“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in liaison with Police Officers from the Integrity Police Station have today, 3rd June 2025, arrested senior public officials from the County Government of Trans Nzoia for obstructing EACC officers while executing a lawful court order,” read part of EACC statement.

On May 19, 2025, EACC officers, armed with a court-issued search warrant, conducted a search operation at the residence of Governor George Natembeya in Kitale. The operation was part of an investigation into procurement irregularities, abuse of office, bribery, and the fraudulent acquisition of Ksh 1.46 billion (2022–2025).

“During the operation, Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) and senior county officials incited the public, resulting in the obstruction of officers, assault on law enforcement, and vandalism of five government vehicles valued at Kshs. 12.1 million,” EACC reported.

Following investigations by the DCI, 24 suspects were arrested and charged with various offences at Kitale Law Courts.

Bernard Muganda (former MCA, Motosiet Ward) was arrested on Monday June 2,  while John Chigi Makhanu (MCA, Sinyerere Ward) and Frank Kuyala Wabwire (Governor’s Protocol Officer) were apprehended on June 3, 2025 outside Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi.

The three officials will be arraigned on June 4, 2025, at Kitale Law Courts.

Meanwhile, the commission reiterated that it will not tolerate obstruction of justice or destruction of public property in the execution of its lawful mandate.