Kenyan investigators have expanded their inquiry into the Sh65 billion Kimwarer and Arror dams scandal, focusing on tracing assets acquired through proceeds of a Sh21 billion fraud, according to Director of Public Prosecutions Noordin Haji.
Haji revealed that preliminary findings indicate widespread involvement of government officials in the scandal, with investigators examining tendering processes, land acquisition failures, and irregularities in contractor payments. The probe now prioritizes financial investigations to identify properties linked to illicit gains, aiming to recover misappropriated public funds.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich was questioned for hours at DCI headquarters over the scandal. His lawyer, Katwa Kigen, confirmed Rotich left after providing statements on procurement procedures. Kigen emphasized the CS was treated as a witness, not a suspect, though investigators probed his role in contract approvals.
DCI boss George Kinoti disclosed efforts to collaborate with UK and Italian authorities to track funds wired abroad. The investigation also scrutinizes payments to Italian contractor CMC di Ravenna, which received Sh7 billion for a project without insurance, according to the Nation.
Haji stressed the complexity of the case, noting the need to trace all Sh21 billion in payments and establish legal accountability for contractors. The probe continues as officials face mounting pressure to clarify procurement irregularities and fund usage.
