A police officer attached to Mugango Police Station in Bomet County has been arrested over distribution of fake Teachers Service Commission (TSC) appointment letters to unsuspecting job seekers.
The officer, identified as Richard Kiprotich Tonui, is accused of collecting millions of shillings from individuals after promising to secure them teaching jobs through fraudulent appointment letters.
Confirming the arrest, a senior police officer said investigations were at an advanced stage. “The suspect has been in custody since last night and will be arraigned in court anytime today. We believe he was part of a wider network, and a manhunt has been launched for three other accomplices who are currently on the run,” the officer said.
The arrest comes barely a day after several Education and TSC officers from Konoin Sub-county were arraigned in court over corruption linked to the issuance of appointment letters. The officers were arrested after members of the public raised concerns over prolonged delays in receiving appointment letters despite having allegedly paid bribes.
One of the affected individuals said they felt betrayed by the system. “We followed all the instructions and paid what we were told was required, but months later there was nothing to show for it,” the victim said.
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The matter sparked public outrage, prompting Konoin Member of Parliament Brighton Yegon to lead residents in storming TSC offices in Mogogosiek town, demanding immediate action against the implicated officers. “It is unacceptable that our youths are being exploited in broad daylight. Those responsible must face the full force of the law,” Yegon said.
Cases of corruption have reportedly continued to mar the recruitment of teachers and issuance of appointment letters across the South Rift region, piling pressure on the government to dismantle the cartels involved.
A TSC official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the commission had intensified internal audits. “We are working closely with investigative agencies to ensure the recruitment process is transparent and merit-based,” the official said.
Authorities say more arrests are expected as investigations continue, even as calls grow louder for reforms to restore public confidence in the teacher recruitment process.
By Kimutai Langat
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