By Robai Ludenyi
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) official in Kisumu over allegations that he demanded and accepted money to help a company clear tax arrears through an irregular process.
The officer, identified as Hughes Obilo, was arrested on September 14, 2026, following investigations into claims that he was involved in a bribery scheme. Obilo works in the Debt Refunds Department at the KRA office in Kisumu. According to the EACC, the official allegedly sought Ksh.100,000 from a construction company in exchange for helping it remove outstanding tax arrears from the iTax system and obtain a Tax Compliance Certificate.
The company reportedly had tax arrears amounting to Ksh.4.5 million. The alleged arrangement involved using the officer’s position to facilitate the irregular clearance of the debt, allowing the company to obtain tax compliance documentation despite the outstanding amount.
EACC investigators began looking into the matter after receiving information about the alleged demand. The commission then carried out preliminary investigations to establish whether the claims had substance and determine the circumstances surrounding the suspected bribery.
The investigations eventually led to an operation targeting the KRA official. During the operation, Obilo was arrested while allegedly receiving Ksh.30,000, which investigators say formed part of the money he had demanded from the construction company.
The arrest highlights the continued efforts by anti-corruption authorities to tackle bribery within public institutions, particularly where officials are accused of using their positions to offer services or clear obligations in exchange for personal payments. Following his arrest, Obilo was taken to Kisumu Central Police Station, where he was booked for further processing and recording of his statement. The matter is expected to proceed through the relevant investigative and legal processes as authorities continue handling the allegations.
The case also draws attention to the importance of proper tax administration and compliance systems. Taxpayers are expected to settle their obligations through lawful procedures, while public officials are required to perform their duties without demanding or accepting private payments.
The EACC operation demonstrates that investigations can extend to officials suspected of manipulating government systems for financial gain. The commission’s action is part of wider efforts to protect public institutions from corruption and ensure government services are provided fairly and according to the law. The allegations against Obilo remain subject to due process, and his arrest does not amount to a finding of guilt.