Woman Arrested in Kirinyaga Over Alleged Ksh3 Million Fake Police Recruitment Scam

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March 17, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

Police in Kirinyaga County have arrested a woman accused of orchestrating a multi million shilling scam by falsely promising to secure jobs in the National Police Service (NPS).

The suspect, Mercy Prudence Baika Mutie, a resident of Ngurubani town, is currently being held at Wang’uru Police Station and is expected to be arraigned in court on Tuesday.

According to investigators, Mutie is alleged to have conspired to defraud Dorris Njoki Njiru of Ksh400,000 by falsely claiming she could facilitate the recruitment of a young man, Newton Muthiiji Alvan, into the police service.

The alleged fraud came to light after Njiru filed a complaint, stating that she handed over the money to Mutie on November 20, 2025, in Ngurubani Township, Mwea East Sub-county.

Detectives say investigations established that Mutie had no authority or influence over police recruitment and is believed to have intended to unlawfully obtain the money.

Authorities further revealed that the suspect is linked to additional cases of obtaining money under false pretences, bringing the total amount involved in the alleged scheme to approximately Ksh3 million.

Among the reported incidents, Mutie is accused of obtaining; Ksh100,000 from Njiru in a separate transaction, Ksh600,000 from Harrison Njenga Njuguna, Ksh500,000 from Maureen Kariuki Njeru, among other complainants

According to detectives from Mwea East Sub county, all the transactions were carried out under the false promise of securing police recruitment opportunities.

Mutie is expected to face charges of conspiracy to defraud contrary to Section 317 of the Penal Code, as well as multiple counts of obtaining money by false pretences.

Police have cautioned members of the public against falling victim to fraudsters purporting to influence recruitment into government institutions, reiterating that official recruitment processes are conducted transparently and do not require payment.

Bungoma Secures Ksh18 Billion Boost as Ruto Begins Tour

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March 17, 2026

Bungoma County is set for a major development boost following the launch of projects worth over KSh18 billion by William Ruto, who has commenced a three-day development tour of the county starting in Cheptais, Mt. Elgon.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony for the KSh185 million Cheptais County Strategic Market, the President outlined a raft of transformative investments aimed at spurring economic growth and improving livelihoods.

The modern three-storey market will feature a cold room, storage facilities, an ICT hub, lactation rooms, a children’s playground, a social hall, over 500 stalls, banking spaces, and a solar-powered borehole.

“The government is committed to empowering traders and small-scale entrepreneurs through modern, well-equipped markets that enhance business operations and incomes,” said President Ruto, while announcing the construction of five additional modern markets , bringing the total to 20 across Bungoma County.

In the energy sector, the President launched a KSh2.4 billion rural electrification programme targeting over 26,000 households across Mt. Elgon and the larger Bungoma region. The initiative is expected to support a 24-hour economy and provide reliable electricity to homes and businesses.

On infrastructure, President Ruto confirmed that funds have been allocated for the upgrading and tarmacking of key roads, including the Maeni–Kimilili–Kapsokwony and Masaek–Kaboriot routes, aimed at enhancing connectivity within Mt. Elgon and neighbouring areas. He noted that contractors will soon move to site.

Additionally, the President announced the rollout of an affordable housing project in Mt. Elgon, projected to create employment opportunities for local youth while addressing housing needs.

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka welcomed the development agenda, describing it as transformative for the county’s socio-economic progress.

“We appreciate the President’s continued support through impactful development projects that are uplifting the lives of our people,” said Lusaka.

“We will continue to mobilise support to ensure the successful implementation of these programmes.”

The governor further expressed confidence in the President’s leadership, urging residents to support his development-oriented agenda, noting that ongoing projects across the country are a testament to the administration’s commitment to national transformation.

By Anthony Solly

DCI Officers Arrest Suspected Drug Trafficker, Recover Cannabis in Limuru Operation

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March 17, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

A joint operation by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has led to the arrest of a suspected drug trafficker and the recovery of a large quantity of suspected cannabis sativa along the Mai Mahiu–Nairobi Road.

The operation, conducted by detectives from the Transnational Organized Crime Unit and the Anti-Narcotics Unit, in collaboration with officers from Mutarakwa Police Post, followed actionable intelligence on suspected drug transportation.

Acting on the intelligence, officers mounted a sting operation at Mutarakwa Trading Centre in Limuru Sub-County, where they intercepted a dark blue Toyota Crown (registration number KCZ 797W) believed to be ferrying narcotics.

The driver, identified as Brian Thomas Wachika, was arrested at the scene.

A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of four-and-a-half sacks containing green plant material suspected to be cannabis sativa. Authorities indicated that the street value of the recovered drugs is yet to be established.

Police also confirmed that a second occupant who was in the vehicle managed to escape during the operation. Efforts to track and arrest the suspect are currently underway.

The arrested suspect and the recovered exhibits have since been transported to the DCI Headquarters for further processing, documentation and forensic analysis.

Wachika is expected to be arraigned in court once investigations are complete.

The DCI has reiterated its commitment to combating drug trafficking and dismantling organized criminal networks, stating that such operations are part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and security across the country.

AK-47 Snatched From a Cop Recovered, Three Suspects Nabbed

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March 17, 2026

Detectives from Jomvu, alongside officers from Mikindani Police Station, have arrested two notorious suspects linked to a violent robbery, recovering an AK-47 rifle that was brazenly snatched from a police officer in the heart of Mombasa County.

The robbery, which occurred on March 14, 2026, in the Maganda area, sparked a relentless manhunt by officers. Acting on a hot tip-off, the officers launched a precision raid in Bangladesh, focusing on the prime suspect: 49-year-old Pius Okech Ondijo, known in the underworld as Pius Philemon Ondicho.

As the officers stormed Ondijo’s hideout, they announced their presence with authority, but he didn’t budge. Instead, the suspect made a desperate bid for freedom by trying to escape, prompting the officers to give chase and subsequently arrest him.

During questioning, the suspect led officers to a second hideout in Narcol area belonging to his accomplice, Kellars Wanyonyi. Upon arrival, officers discovered another suspect, Nicholus Oluoch Okoth, lurking like a rat in the ceiling; he was swiftly apprehended.

As the officers turned the place upside down, they uncovered the stolen AK-47 assault rifle, Serial No. 5426917, cleverly concealed in a sack on the ceiling, along with thirty (30) rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. It was a startling recovery, with records confirming that this was indeed the same weapon wrenched from the hands of a police officer during that fateful robbery.

The three suspects were later escorted to Mikindani Police Station, where they now find themselves on the wrong side of the law, awaiting processing before facing the full force of the law.

Meanwhile, Officers are hot on the trail of additional suspects believed to be part of this nefarious crew, who are believed to have participated in the robbery.

By Anthony Solly

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Post-Mortem Reveals JSS Teacher Betty Nyaga Died from Severe Physical Trauma

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March 17, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

A post-mortem examination has revealed that Betty Wanjiru Nyaga, a 28-year-old Junior Secondary School (JSS) teacher from Mwea East, died from injuries consistent with physical trauma.

According to the pathologist’s findings, Nyaga sustained significant soft tissue injuries which led to complications, including kidney failure, ultimately causing her death.

Her body was discovered last Wednesday in a thicket in Mugumo-ini village, near the Nyamindi River, in a case that has since sparked concern among residents and the education community.

The post-mortem was conducted at Kibugi Funeral Home in the presence of family members and representatives from the education sector.

Police have since identified a person of interest in connection with the case, as investigations intensify.

Kirinyaga County Police Commander Mohammed Jire confirmed that detectives from Wang’uru Police Station are actively pursuing leads to locate and apprehend the suspect.

Authorities have appealed to members of the public to remain calm and allow due process, following an incident where a house believed to be linked to the person of interest was set on fire.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has also called on the public to share any information that may assist in the ongoing investigations.

Nyaga is survived by a young child, with burial arrangements set to take place at her family home in Mugumo-ini village.

The case remains under active investigation.

Youth Empowered Through Skills Training at TVET Mashinani Graduation in Moyale

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March 17, 2026

The MSEA Marsabit Office attended the TVET Mashinani–Wezesha Vijana Program graduation ceremony held in Moyale.

The program, implemented by the Safaricom Foundation in partnership with Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and Nyeri National Polytechnic, celebrates the dedication and achievements of students drawn from across Marsabit County while bringing accredited vocational training closer to communities.

Through the program, youth have acquired market-relevant skills in areas such as mobile phone repair and maintenance, electrical wiring, plumbing and masonry, baking and pastry, tailoring, and motorcycle repair. The initiative equips young people with practical skills that prepare them for employment and entrepreneurship.

Graduates of the TVET Mashinani program are expected to become future micro and small enterprise owners. Beyond certification, the Wezesha Vijana program supports their transition into the labour market by providing start-up toolkits and grants, business coaching, and financial literacy training to encourage saving, investment, and sustainable enterprise growth.

The program plays a key role in bridging opportunities for marginalized youth, particularly young women and persons with disabilities, ensuring inclusive participation in economic transformation.

MSEA Marsabit reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the new artisans and entrepreneurs as they transition from training to the marketplace and encouraged the graduands to formalize their businesses and join MSE associations.

By Anthony Solly

Katiba Institute Moves to Court to Block Implementation of National Infrastructure Fund Act

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March 17, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

A constitutional petition has been filed at the Milimani High Court seeking to suspend the implementation of the National Infrastructure Fund Act, 2026, with the petitioners arguing that the law is unconstitutional.

The case, filed under a certificate of urgency by Katiba Institute, asks the court to issue conservatory orders restraining the government from operationalising the Act pending the hearing and determination of the petition.

The applicants are also seeking orders to stop the government from channeling proceeds from the privatisation of state assets into the proposed fund.

This includes anticipated revenue from the sale of shares in key entities such as Kenya Pipeline Company and Safaricom.

According to court documents, lawyer Henry Paul Gichana argues that the legislative process leading to the enactment of the law was flawed, particularly due to the alleged exclusion of the Senate.

The petitioners contend that the Senate ought to have been involved because the Act has implications on county finances and its exclusion violates constitutional requirements on bicameral lawmaking.

They further argue that the law undermines Parliament’s oversight role over public finances and sidelines the Controller of Budget, whose constitutional mandate includes approving and supervising public expenditure.

The petition also raises concerns over what the applicants describe as a lack of adequate public participation in the enactment of the law, as well as questions around equitable distribution of resources and whether the legal thresholds for establishing such a public fund were met.

The applicants warn that unless the court intervenes urgently, billions of shillings expected from privatisation could be channelled outside the constitutional framework, potentially leading to irreversible financial and legal consequences.

The matter is expected to be mentioned in court for directions as the High Court considers whether to grant interim conservatory orders halting the implementation of the Act.

EADB Defends Ksh1.9 Billion Loan Claim Against Raphael Tuju, Details Timeline of Default and Court Rulings

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March 17, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

The East African Development Bank (EADB) has issued a detailed statement clarifying its long-running loan dispute with former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju, insisting that no repayment has been made despite multiple court rulings in its favour.

In a statement released Tuesday, the regional lender said Tuju, through his company Dari Limited, has not complied with court orders requiring settlement of a debt now amounting to approximately Ksh1.9 billion.

According to EADB, Dari Limited secured a loan of USD 9,197,084 (about KSh1.2 billion) in 2015, using several Nairobi properties as collateral.

The loan was disbursed on July 29, 2015, but fell into default in the second quarter of 2016.

The bank said it issued demand notices in November 2017, which were not honoured, prompting it to pursue legal action in the High Court of Justice in England.

In 2019, the UK court ruled in favour of EADB, ordering payment of USD 15,162,320 (about KSh1.9 billion), inclusive of principal, accrued interest and penalties as stipulated in the loan agreement.

The bank noted that both parties were represented by legal counsel during the proceedings.

The judgment was subsequently recognized and adopted by the High Court in Nairobi on February 13, 2020, and later upheld by the Court of Appeal on April 20, 2023.

“At no point, over the course of this seven-year-long dispute, has the EADB received any credible or verifiable repayment offer from the debtors as have been alleged,” the bank stated.

Following the continued default, EADB exercised its rights under the loan security agreement and auctioned one of the charged properties, the Dari Business Park on Ngong Road, on October 1, 2024.

However, Dari Limited later moved to court challenging the auction and valuation of the property, as well as actions by the bank and associated service providers.

The company obtained interim injunctive orders, but these applied only to properties that had not yet been sold.

In a ruling delivered on March 9, 2026, the High Court in Nairobi struck out Tuju’s amended plaint and lifted earlier interim orders that had restrained the bank from dealing with the remaining secured properties.

The affected properties include Entim Sidai Wellness Sanctuary (LR No. 11320/3) off Tree Lane in Karen, as well as Tamarind Karen and Dari Business Park (LR No. 1055/165) off Ngong Road.

Tuju has, however, maintained that the amount claimed by EADB is significantly lower than the value of the assets already auctioned, particularly the Dari Business Park.

He has also stated that he has always been willing to settle the debt, but has raised concerns over the process leading to the disposal of his properties, alleging that the matter has been politicised.

The former Cabinet Secretary has since written to Chief Justice Martha Koome, questioning the conduct and integrity of certain judicial officers involved in the matter, as well as the circumstances under which auctioneers were allowed to proceed with the sale of his Karen properties.

The dispute continues to draw attention as it moves through Kenya’s legal system, raising broader questions about debt recovery, enforcement of foreign judgments, and the balance between creditor rights and debtor protections.

Katiba Institute moves to court to stop implementation of National Infrastructure Fund Act

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March 17, 2026

A petition has been filed at the Milimani High Court under a certificate of urgency seeking to suspend the implementation of the National Infrastructure Fund Act, 2026, with the petitioners arguing the law is unconstitutional.

The petition by Katiba Institute asks the court to issue conservatory orders restraining the government from operationalising the Act.

The applicants also want orders stopping the government from channeling proceeds from the privatisation of state assets into the proposed fund, including money expected from the sale of shares in Kenya Pipeline Company and Safaricom.

According to court documents, lawyer Henry Paul Gichana argues the Senate was excluded from the legislative process despite the law affecting county finances, contrary to constitutional requirements.

The petitioners also contend the law undermines Parliament’s oversight role over public finances and sidelines the Controller of Budget, which they say is constitutionally mandated to approve and supervise public expenditure.

The case further raises concerns over alleged lack of public participation, inequitable distribution of resources and failure to meet legal thresholds for establishing public funds.

The applicants warn that unless the court intervenes urgently, billions of shillings raised from privatisation could be diverted outside the constitutional framework, with irreversible financial and legal consequences.

The matter is expected to be mentioned for directions.

Nairobi County to begin demolishing houses along riparian land, Governor Sakaja says

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March 17, 2026

After severe rains caused disruptions in numerous areas of the capital, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has proposed a raft of measures to deal with perennial flooding in the city.

Among the measures is the demolition of infrastructure along the river banks.

“Those who have constructed houses on river banks will have to move. Because we will remove those houses. We have assembled the equipment to do the work. They know they are not supposed to be there,” said Sakaja.

According to the Governor, machinery would be brought to demolish the infrastructure along the river lines in Nairobi.

“You will see us demolish walls along the river. Painful decisions must be made. I hope we get cooperation as we open up. There are areas like Brookside that are affected all the time. We are coming,” said Sakaja.

The governor, on Monday, held a meeting with the Joint Implementation Committee on the Cooperation Agreement between the National Government and Nairobi City County Government.

The committee ordered the Nairobi Rivers Commission, Nairobi Water, KURA, KeRRA, and KeNHA, as well as the county transportation sector, to present a thorough collaborative evaluation and costed response plan on the flood damage within 48 hours.

The report will identify and map drainage bottlenecks and damaged infrastructure across Nairobi’s 17 sub-counties, prioritise de-silting of drainage systems and repairs on damaged roads, and recommend long-term improvements to the city’s stormwater drainage network.

The committee further directed a multi-agency team to intensify enforcement and recovery of riparian and floodplain areas under the Nairobi Rivers Commission to restore natural river flow and reduce recurrent flooding.

According to Sakaja, satellite and GIS mapping of Nairobi’s River corridors, flood plains and high-risk zones will be prepared and shared with government agencies and the public to strengthen disaster preparedness and urban planning.

Over 4,000 household water treatment supplies have been supplied, and more than 300 flood-affected homes and sanitary facilities have been cleaned.

Additionally, Sakaja says community health advocates educated over 1,300 neighbours about water safety and hygiene, while public health professionals cleansed over 30 flood-affected schools, benefiting over 3,800 students.

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