File image of EACC headquarters at Integrity Centre in Nairobi.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has secured High Court orders to preserve $460,000 (Ksh.62,100,000) seized in connection with the ongoing investigation into former Cabinet Secretary and Marsabit Governor Ukur Yatani. The funds, consisting of 4,600 pieces of USD 100 denominations, were confiscated from his nephew, Ibrae Doko Yatani.
Justice Esther Maina granted the freezing orders for a period of six months, citing reasonable grounds to believe that the money may constitute proceeds of corruption or unexplained wealth. The court’s ruling, in accordance with Section 56(3) of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act (ACECA), allows for the continued detention of the seized funds.
EACC asserted to the High Court that the possession of such a significant amount raises suspicions of money laundering and necessitates a thorough investigation into its source. The commission highlighted irregular transactions involving Ibrae Doko Yatani’s company, Al Habib Enterprises, and funds received from the County Government of Marsabit.
Furthermore, EACC expressed concerns that releasing the funds without a court order could enable Ibrae Doko Yatani to dispose of or transfer the cash, potentially obstructing forfeiture proceedings and compromising public interests.
The preserved funds will serve as crucial evidence in potential criminal charges against Ukur Yatani, Marsabit Governor Mohamud Mohamed Ali, and other implicated individuals for alleged offenses including theft of public funds, abuse of office, procurement irregularities, conflict of interest, and unexplained wealth.
