By Michelle Ndaga
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has ordered the prosecution of St Mark Orthodox Hospital in Vihiga County, its directors, and an employee of the Social Health Authority (SHA) over fraudulent claims amounting to millions of shillings.
According to a press statement issued on October 4, 2025, the case stems from claims totaling Ksh 4,916,800 that were paid to the hospital by SHA, despite the correct amount being only Ksh 18,000.
The DPP said the fraudulent scheme was uncovered following investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The hospital itself will face charges of conspiracy to defraud, cheating, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and falsification of health documents.
Two directors of the facility Desouza Fenley and Mark Dhilion Sydon are also set to face personal charges. Fenley has been accused of conspiracy to defraud, cheating, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and falsification of health documents. Sydon will be charged with conspiracy to defraud and falsification of health documents.
In addition, Sammy Otieno, an employee at the Social Health Authority, has been implicated and will be charged with conspiracy to defraud and conspiracy to commit a felony.
The DPP emphasized that the prosecutions are part of ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and integrity in the management of public resources, particularly within the health sector.
“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions undertakes to continue exercising its mandate in accordance with the Constitution and relevant laws,” the statement read.
The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court in the coming days.
