By GEOFREY KASERA: The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) officer in Kisumu for allegedly soliciting and receiving a bribe to irregularly clear tax arrears and issue a Tax Compliance Certificate.

The suspect, Hughes Obilo, an officer attached to the Debt Refunds Department, allegedly demanded Sh100,000 from a local construction company. In exchange, Obilo promised to clear Sh4.5 million in outstanding tax arrears from the iTax system.

Following preliminary investigations, EACC detectives staged a trap operation on September 14, 2026, catching the officer red-handed as he received a partial bribe payment of Sh30,000.

The suspect was processed and booked at Kisumu Central Police Station, where he recorded a statement pending charge presentation in court.

Reiterating its stance, the anti-graft agency emphasized its commitment to eliminating extortion at public service touchpoints and taking firm action against public officers abusing their positions for financial gain.