The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has arrested three traffic police officers who were allegedly involved in bribery along the busy Kisumu–Kisii Highway. The officers were attached to Sondu Police Station and were taken into custody after a targeted operation by EACC officers.
The arrests come after several complaints from motorists and members of the public who reported being regularly asked for bribes while using the road.
The officers arrested are Inspector of Police Rachel Wangetha, Corporal Wilberforce Koffi, and Corporal Shadrack Nerima.
According to EACC, the three were allegedly demanding and receiving money from drivers without carrying out proper traffic checks or enforcing the law as required.
Many road users had raised concerns that some officers along the highway were turning their duty into a money-making opportunity, especially during busy hours when traffic is heavy.
Following these complaints, the commission launched a surveillance operation to confirm the claims. Investigators monitored the officers’ activities and gathered evidence showing that the suspects were stopping motorists and demanding bribes without any legal reason.
During the operation, the officers were allegedly caught in the act and were found with cash believed to be proceeds of corruption. The money was in different denominations, raising suspicion that it had been collected from multiple motorists over a short period of time.After their arrest, the officers were first taken to the EACC Central Nyanza Regional Office in Kisumu, where initial processing was done.
They were later escorted to Kisumu Railways and Ports Police Station, where they were formally booked as investigations continue. The commission stated that further inquiries will be conducted to establish the full extent of the alleged misconduct and whether more people may have been involved.
The operation is part of a wider nationwide effort by the EACC to fight bribery and corruption, especially on major highways. The commission has noted that corruption along roads remains a major challenge, affecting public trust in law enforcement and putting innocent road users at risk.
During festive seasons, when travel increases, cases of bribery tend to rise, making such operations even more important.EACC has emphasized that its work is focused on protecting the public and restoring integrity in public service.
The commission continues to strengthen intelligence gathering and surveillance in areas that are vulnerable to corruption, including transport, security, and other essential services. It has also reminded public officers that abusing their positions for personal gain will not be tolerated.
The commission has urged members of the public to report any cases of corruption through its official reporting channels. It noted that public cooperation plays a key role in fighting corruption and ensuring accountability.
Leave feedback about this