The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has moved to court to stop an alleged illegal auction of public land in Nakuru.
The auction is allegedly being done by a private company which claims ownership of the property.
Through an advert published in the local dailies, the auctioneers issued a notice of the auction to be conducted publicly on Friday, August 23, 2024.
Addressing the media during an investigation tour of the land, EACC South Rift regional manager Ignatius Wekesa revealed that it is part of 165 acres of the land worth over Sh10 billion.
He said the land was allegedly grabbed by over 50 private persons and is under active investigation by the Commission for recovery and return to the public.
The Commission cautioned anyone planning to participate in the planned auction that they risk being conned since no person can claim ownership and sell public land.
"Therefore, any person purchasing this land risks losing it to the government when the ongoing investigations and court process are finally completed," EACC said.
Wekesa said the Commission has since written to the Ministry of Lands asking it to put restrictions on the land to stop any dealings until its ongoing investigations are completed.
The regional manager confirmed that the Commission has since commenced investigations on various matters that have generated public interest in Nakuru.
The Commission commended the residents of Nakuru and the NGOs based in Nakuru who are increasingly providing it with valuable reports.
On land grabbing, EACC said any grabber pretending to claim ownership of public land should consider voluntary surrender to the Commission.
