Kenya has initiated an international investigation to track illicit financial flows tied to a phantom dam project in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, where an Italian firm allegedly received billions in payments for unexecuted work. Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) George Kinoti confirmed the probe involves collaboration with authorities in the United Kingdom and Italy, citing the movement of funds through those jurisdictions.
"We are no longer dealing with domestic but international organised crime," Kinoti stated, emphasizing the cross-border nature of the alleged corruption. The investigation intensified as National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich appeared before investigators for the third consecutive day, questioned about discrepancies in payments for the Arror and Kimwarer dams.
The National Treasury reportedly paid Sh20 billion to the Italian contractor and an insurance agency for projects that remain unbuilt, with the latter receiving funds 14 months after the initial payment. Rotich faced scrutiny over why the contract lacked insurance coverage, a detail he addressed in a recent advertisement. DCI officials have also engaged with Italian authorities to identify contract signatories, describing the suspects as evasive in a "cat-and-mouse game."
In London, the DCI partnered with the National Crime Agency to investigate economic crime, human trafficking, and cybercrime. Kinoti described the probe as methodical, noting the involvement of multiple companies with distinct directors. Meanwhile, British High Commissioner Nick Hailey pledged support for anti-corruption efforts, urging those facing formal charges to step aside for unimpeded investigations.
Rotich, under pressure to resign, remains a "person of interest" rather than a suspect, according to Kinoti. President Uhuru Kenyatta reiterated confidence in investigative agencies, framing the probe as a broader fight against corruption rather than a personal attack. Opposition leader Raila Odinga criticized Deputy President William Ruto for challenging DCI figures, demanding accountability for conflicting payment reports.
