Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) detectives have arrested nine suspects over alleged embezzlement and fraudulent disbursement of Sh1.5 billion meant for the Rural Outreach of Financial Innovations and Technologies (PROFIT) Programme.
The programme was implemented by the National Treasury and funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) during the 2013/14 to 2023/24 financial years.
Among those arrested are PROFIT Programme Coordinator John Ngure Kabutha; National Treasury Head of Accounting Unit Namwel Moturi Motanyu; and Senior Accountant John Maina Muriithi.
The suspects also include Gladys Juliet Oroni, proprietor of Mawindo Enterprises, Brigs Agencies and Green Basil Agencies; Brian Kiprop Chepkarat, proprietor of El Konyinta Technologies; Ian Kwemoi Chepkarat, director of 020 Investments Limited and Vidi Vici Limited; Josephat Kamau Kamoshe, director of Blue Dart Agencies Limited; James Omwodo, proprietor of Edna’s Agencies, Prozepp Technologies and Steeven Enterprises; and Jimmy Carter Ochoyo, proprietor of Cadnic Investments.
EACC said 11 other suspects have been directed to present themselves at the commission’s Integrity Centre headquarters in Nairobi or at the nearest EACC office for processing.
The Director of Public Prosecutions has approved charges against the suspects, including abuse of office, unlawful acquisition of public property, uttering a false document, financial misconduct, acquisition of proceeds of crime and money laundering.
The investigation centres on the alleged irregular disbursement and misuse of funds intended to support the PROFIT Programme, which sought to promote financial innovation and technology in rural areas.
The suspects are expected to be processed before being taken to court to face the charges.
