The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has authorised charges against several individuals and health facilities following investigations into alleged fraud at the Social Health Authority (SHA).
In a statement dated February 25, 2026, the ODPP confirmed it had reviewed investigation files submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) between January 28 and February 24, 2026. The probe focused on suspected fraudulent registration of facilities, false claims and irregular payments linked to the public health insurer.
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Investigators uncovered what is believed to be a coordinated scheme in which certain health institutions allegedly registered unlawfully with the authority and received payments through fraudulent claims.
Approved charges include conspiracy to defraud, obtaining money by false pretences, running unlicensed health facilities, and acquiring proceeds of crime.
Some of the facilities are accused of operating without the required licences under the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act, while others allegedly submitted fictitious claims to secure payments they were not entitled to.
An official attached to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council was also implicated. The individual faces charges of unauthorised access to a computer system, abuse of office, computer fraud and conspiracy to defraud. Prosecutors allege the official used their position to illegally access systems and facilitate the registration of the implicated facilities, enabling them to obtain funds from the authority.
Both the individuals and their associated institutions will face charges related to obtaining money by false pretences, with some also facing additional counts under money laundering laws.
The ODPP stated that the decision to prosecute followed a thorough review of the evidence gathered during investigations.
The move marks a significant step in addressing alleged malpractice within the public health insurance system, which is intended to make healthcare more affordable for Kenyans. Authorities noted that fraud within the system not only erodes public confidence but also diverts funds meant for genuine healthcare providers and patients.
The ODPP reiterated its commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring accountability. The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court as the government steps up efforts to curb fraud in public institutions.
