EACC Arrests KRA Official in Kisumu Over Alleged KSh100,000 Bribery Scheme

KISUMU, KENYA — The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) official in Kisumu over alleged bribery involving the clearance of tax arrears and issuance of a Tax Compliance Certificate.

The suspect, identified as Hughes Obilo, is an officer attached to the KRA Debt Refunds Department in Kisumu.

According to the EACC, Obilo allegedly solicited and received a bribe from a construction company in exchange for facilitating the irregular clearance of tax arrears from the iTax system and helping secure a Tax Compliance Certificate.

Official Allegedly Demanded KSh100,000

The commission said preliminary investigations established that Obilo allegedly demanded KSh100,000 from the construction company to facilitate the removal of outstanding tax arrears amounting to approximately KSh4.5 million from the iTax system.

Following the preliminary investigations, EACC investigators mounted an operation targeting the official.

The operation reportedly culminated in Obilo's arrest on September 14, 2026, while he was allegedly receiving KSh30,000, said to be part of the requested bribe.

The arrest forms part of EACC's efforts to investigate alleged corruption and bribery involving public officials.

Suspect Booked at Kisumu Central Police Station

Following his arrest, Obilo was taken to Kisumu Central Police Station, where he was booked for processing and statement recording.

The case is expected to proceed through the relevant investigative and legal processes as authorities determine whether charges will be brought against the suspect.

The allegations against Obilo have not been tested in court, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.