Sarah Anyango
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested Josphat Gichunge Kabeabea, Chairperson of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) Board, after raiding his home and offices over allegations of bribery, extortion, and unexplained wealth.
The operation, conducted earlier today under court orders, follows preliminary findings that Kabeabea allegedly demanded a KSh 5 million bribe from a Chinese investor with Hongda Automotive Limited.
Investigators say that on November 11, 2025, he threatened to detain the investor and colleagues over purported counterfeit violations unless payment was made. He is accused of later reducing the demand to KSh 150,000, which was sent to a mobile number linked to his personal driver.
Kabeabea, a former Tigania East MP, was detained at the Integrity Centre Police Station for further interrogation and recording of statements.
According to EACC officials, the complaint is one of several, with more investors — both local and foreign — alleging similar extortion attempts tied to regulatory enforcement.
The allegations strike at the heart of the ACA’s mandate. Established under the Anti-Counterfeit Act of 2008, the agency is tasked with protecting consumers and legitimate businesses from counterfeit goods — a mission that places its board chair at the frontline of ethical enforcement.
In a brief statement, the EACC reiterated its commitment to combating graft: “EACC remains committed to combating corruption, safeguarding public interests, and improving access to quality services for all citizens.” The commission declined to provide further details on the unexplained wealth investigations, saying inquiries are ongoing.
The arrest comes amid growing scrutiny of regulatory agencies, with the EACC reporting a rise in whistleblower reports alleging shakedowns in investment-related sectors.