DCI Investigates Attack on EACC Officers During Natembeya’s Raid

• May 19, 2025

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched an investigation after Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) officers were violently attacked during a raid at Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya’s home. The raid was linked to a probe into a suspected procurement fraud worth Ksh1.4 billion.

The search, which began on Monday, May 19, 2025, started smoothly in the presence of the governor’s family members, lawyers, and security personnel. However, the operation was disrupted when a group of hostile individuals stormed the premises, attacking EACC officers and destroying property.

According to the DCI, the EACC officers were executing a search warrant to investigate irregular procurement and fictitious payments by the Trans Nzoia County Government during the financial years 2022/2023 and 2024/2025. The search targeted Governor Natembeya’s residence and office, as well as those of four other suspects linked to the case.

The violent group not only obstructed the officers but also destroyed five EACC vehicles. Some seized items and valuables inside the cars were stolen after the attackers overpowered the security officers who were guarding the raid.

“The search was being conducted lawfully with all relevant parties present. But the operation was violently disrupted when a hostile group forcefully entered the premises, overpowering security personnel, causing chaos, damaging five EACC vehicles, and stealing seized items,” the DCI statement explained.

The DCI described the incident as obstruction of justice and vowed to pursue all those responsible. “This attack is a clear attempt to undermine the rule of law and obstruct justice,” the agency said, promising to identify and hold the perpetrators accountable.

Governor Natembeya addressed the public later on Monday in Kakagema, but the DCI’s investigation into the violent disruption and the procurement allegations is ongoing. The incident highlights the challenges faced by anti-corruption agencies in carrying out their duties amidst resistance.

The DCI’s swift response to this attack signals a strong commitment to uphold the law and protect officers enforcing it, while reinforcing the government’s stance against corruption and unlawful interference.