Janet Kosgei, the Uasin Gishu County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Lands, Physical Planning & Housing, was arrested by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on Wednesday evening over serious allegations of extorting money from citizens seeking services in her office. She was released on police bail on Thursday as the investigation continues.
Kosgei’s arrest is part of a larger operation aimed at addressing multiple complaints from the public, who have accused the senior official of demanding bribes in exchange for services related to land management. It was reported that she had solicited Kes120,000 from an individual in order to sign off on a crucial land lease document.
The operation took a dramatic turn when two county enforcement officers, Sgt. Geoffrey Lang’at and Sgt. Jeremiah Kipkemoi, attempted to thwart the EACC officers’ efforts, resulting in a brief scuffle. The detectives successfully neutralized the situation and apprehended both officers alongside Kosgei.
The trio was initially held at the Eldoret Central Police Station before being transferred to the EACC North Rift Regional Offices to record statements regarding the allegations. Videos circulating on social media captured the tense moments of their arrest, highlighting the chaotic scene as the officers attempted to enforce the law.
Kosgei’s arrest raised alarm bells over corruption within local government and the prevalence of bribery related to land services in the region. The EACC emphasized its commitment to investigating these serious claims thoroughly, vowing to maintain transparency for citizens seeking justice.
As news of the arrest continues to unfold, residents of Uasin Gishu are left questioning the integrity of their local officials and the state of governance. EACC officials have urged anyone with additional information on corrupt practices to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigations.
The case has undoubtedly sparked significant media attention, as many are curious to see what implications this incident may have for local governance in Uasin Gishu and the measures being taken to combat corruption within the county’s administration.
