Iryna zarutska

Four traffic officers were arrested today for bribery. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) conducted the operation. According to EACC, the officers extorted motorists. They targeted matatu operators and truck drivers. The arrested officers are Georgina Syokau, Robert Mwenda, Gladys Cherono, and Pauline Anyango. They worked at Makutano and Juja Traffic Bases. EACC acted after public complaints. An undercover operation caught the officers in action. “They were taking bribes openly,” said EACC spokesperson Eric Ngumbi (Mchukuzi wa Habari [Spokesperson]). “We had to intervene fast.” The officers were taken to Integrity Centre. They recorded statements there. Three officers are from Makutano Traffic Base. Pauline Anyango is from Juja Traffic Base. The arrests happened along Nairobi-Embu Highway. The road is known for heavy traffic. Public reports highlighted rampant extortion. Motorists faced constant bribe demands. “We received many complaints,” an EACC detective reported (Mpelelezi [Detective]). “The situation was out of control.” The officers allegedly collected bribes daily. Matatu drivers were their main targets. EACC is continuing its investigation. The officers may face corruption charges. The operation was swift and discreet. Plainclothes detectives ambushed the officers. “They didn’t see us coming,” a detective said (Mpelelezi [Detective]). “It was a clean sweep.” The officers were processed at EACC headquarters. They await further legal action. The highway is a busy route. Extortion has long frustrated drivers. EACC urges motorists to report bribery. A toll-free line is available. The investigation is ongoing. Charges will be filed soon.