The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission on Friday arrested Josphat Gichunge Kabeabea, Chairperson of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority Board, as part of ongoing investigations into allegations of bribery, extortion of investors, and unexplained wealth.
The arrest followed search operations at his residence and offices, conducted after EACC secured court orders prompted by preliminary findings.
According to the Commission, Kabeabea is accused of demanding a Sh5 million bribe from a Chinese investor operating as Hongda Automotive Limited, allegedly threatening arrest over claims of counterfeit trade.
Investigators say the bribe demand was later reduced to KSh150,000, which was reportedly sent to a mobile number believed to belong to his personal driver.
EACC further revealed that similar allegations against the official have emerged during the wider probe.
Kabeabea is currently being held at the Integrity Centre Police Station for questioning and statement recording.
The Commission says it remains committed to fighting corruption and safeguarding public resources.
Investigators have since confirmed that Kabeabea visited the company’s premises on November 10 and 11.
Statements have been recorded and CCTV footage retrieved as part of the probe.
EACC Head of Communication Stephen Karuga, who confirmed the raid, said the matter mirrors an earlier incident reported in October, in which Kabeabea allegedly demanded Sh10 million and received Sh8 million from UNIPRO Limited after threatening to implicate the firm in counterfeit dealings.
