Kenya Railways is at the center of a massive corruption scandal involving the theft of billions of shillings through fictitious land compensation. The scandal, which unfolded around December last year, saw billions paid out to three proxies for land that was fraudulently allocated within the Dupoto/Dafur Settlement Scheme in Embakasi. This 90-acre land lies between the flight path, the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), and the Nairobi National Park.
The Fraudulent Land Compensation Scheme
Sources reveal that these proxies were quickly issued title deeds for the land and immediately compensated to “vacate” for a Kenya Railways project. In reality, this was a carefully orchestrated scheme by high-ranking officials to siphon public funds. The individuals behind the fraud were allegedly handpicked by influential figures in government, ensuring that the process appeared legitimate.
Investigations initially launched by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) uncovered irregularities in the compensation process. However, the probe was abruptly halted after a call from State House, leaving investigators in shock. This interference raised concerns about high-level protection of the masterminds behind the theft.
Philip Mainga’s Role in the Scandal
Kenya Railways CEO Philip Mainga has been directly linked to the fraudulent scheme. Under his leadership, over 544 parcels of public land have been illegally allocated to private individuals. The Dupoto/Dafur Settlement Scheme case is the latest in a series of questionable dealings within the corporation.
Mainga is no stranger to controversy. During his tenure, land belonging to key railway stations, including Limuru and Kikuyu, mysteriously changed hands. Investigations into these allocations have repeatedly been stalled, allegedly due to powerful individuals benefiting from the theft.
Political Cover-Up and Suspicious Dismissals
The former board of Kenya Railways, which was abruptly dismissed by Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen, was reportedly aware of these fraudulent activities. Their removal is believed to have been a move to silence those who had knowledge of the deal. In their place, Duale’s brother was installed to oversee operations, ensuring that no further scrutiny would take place.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and Principal Secretary for Lands and Physical Planning Nixon Korir have also been named in connection with the deal. Sources suggest that both officials were aware of the fraudulent compensation scheme but chose to remain silent or actively protect those involved. Their involvement raises serious questions about the extent of government complicity in the looting of public funds.
Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) Blocked from Investigations
In yet another twist, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) attempted to investigate the matter but was stopped from proceeding. The interference suggests that those behind the scam are well-connected individuals who wield significant power within government circles. With EACC and DCI unable to act, the stolen billions remain unaccounted for, and the public continues to bear the burden of these fraudulent activities.
How the Scam Worked
- The masterminds identified the 90-acre land and ensured that title deeds were issued to proxies.
- The land was then “sold” to the government for a Kenya Railways project at an inflated price.
- The proxies were instructed to open bank accounts where the fraudulent compensation money was deposited.
- Billions of taxpayers’ money were wired to these accounts and later withdrawn by the real masterminds behind the scheme.
This kind of theft is not new in Kenya. Previous scandals involving land compensation have seen billions stolen through similar methods. The impunity with which this crime was executed shows that corruption networks within government remain strong and untouchable.
Where is the Money?
Kenya Railways CEO Philip Mainga– With the billions gone, there is little hope that the funds will ever be recovered. The proxies who received the money have either disappeared or are being protected by powerful figures. Meanwhile, Kenya Railways continues to operate under a cloud of corruption, with Mainga still at the helm.
Call for Action
The public deserves accountability. Who gave the orders to halt investigations? Why was the EACC blocked from acting? Why were those involved not arrested? These are questions that demand answers.
Kenyans must push for transparency and demand that those involved be brought to justice. If nothing is done, this case will be yet another example of grand corruption where billions are looted, and the culprits walk free.
Kenya-Today.com has obtained some documents related to the case. If you have more information, reach out to us. The truth must come out.
Leave a Reply