The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested three Ministry of Labour officials stationed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for allegedly orchestrating a bribery scheme targeting agents processing migrant workers traveling to the Middle East.
The officials — Benson Ouma Okello, Esther Njoki Gakuru, and Denis Marias — were picked up on 30 November 2025 after EACC investigators caught them receiving Sh34,000 in alleged bribes.
According to the Commission, the arrests followed complaints that Labour officials at the airport were routinely demanding Sh500 per migrant worker before clearing them for departure.
The allegations triggered a surveillance operation that confirmed the existence of the extortion racket.
During the sting operation, EACC officers worked with an agent handling 78 migrant workers set to travel on Sunday.
The agent approached the officers manning the Labour booth at JKIA, where the officials allegedly tabulated the day’s “charges” and collected the cash.
EACC investigators then moved in, arrested the three suspects, and recovered the money.
The officials were taken to Integrity Centre for processing and recording statements.
They are expected to be released on Sh50,000 cash bail each as investigations continue.
The Commission said the operation underscores its ongoing efforts to dismantle bribery schemes in public service delivery points, particularly where vulnerable Kenyans rely on government assistance.
“The Commission reiterates its commitment to tackling bribery at service points to restore public trust and improve access to quality services,” EACC said.
