Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, EACC, arrested three Ministry of Labour officials at JKIA for extorting migrant workers travelling to the Middle East.
Investigators confirmed officials demanded and received Sh34,000 from one agent handling 78 workers.
The Commission emphasised its commitment to fighting bribery at service points, restoring public trust, and ensuring fair and transparent processes for citizens accessing government services.
According to the statement released by the commission, the arrests on Sunday followed reports that Ministry of Labour officials routinely solicited and received bribes from agents for each migrant worker cleared to travel.
EACC launched an inquiry into the allegations and conducted surveillance to verify the claims.
Investigators confirmed that agents sending migrant workers to the Middle East were paying Sh500 per worker before being allowed to travel.
Acting on the findings, the Commission collaborated with one of the agents, who had 78 migrant workers ready for departure.
On November 30, 2025, during the operation at JKIA, the agent met with three Labour Officers manning the processing booth.
After tabulating the total amount owed, the officials demanded and received Sh34,000 from the agent.
EACC officers immediately moved in to apprehend the suspects. The three officials arrested are Benson Ouma Okello, Esther Njoki Gakuru, and Denis Marias. The Commission recovered the full Sh34,000 during the operation.
An official from the Ministry of Labour arrested for extortion by EACC on Sunday, November 30, 2025. PHOTO/EACCThe suspects were escorted to the Integrity Centre, where they underwent processing and statement recording.
Each of the three is expected to be released on a cash bail of Sh50,000, pending completion of the ongoing investigation.
The Commission emphasised that such acts of bribery undermine public trust and hinder citizens’ access to quality services.
In a statement, EACC reiterated its dedication to tackling corruption at service delivery points to ensure transparency and fairness.
“The arrest reaffirms the Commission’s commitment to restoring public confidence and ensuring that government services are delivered without harassment or extortion,” the statement said.
EACC also noted that continuous surveillance and prompt action are key tools in combating corrupt practices at government facilities, particularly at crucial points like international airports where citizens expect efficient and ethical service.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in the facilitation of migrant workers, particularly those travelling for employment in the Middle East, where officials are alleged to exploit their positions for personal gain.
The Commission has promised to pursue further investigations and take decisive action against anyone found culpable.
By publicly disclosing the operation and the identities of the arrested officials, the EACC aims to send a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated, and those who attempt to exploit citizens will face swift consequences.
The Commission’s actions are expected to reassure the public and legitimate agents handling migrant worker placements that efforts are underway to eliminate bribery, improve accountability, and protect the interests of Kenyan citizens seeking overseas employment.
