The scandal, centred around Northern Kenya and neighbouring border regions, follows the government’s recent move to scrap intensive security vetting for ID applicants in these areas, a decision critics warned could be exploited by criminal networks.
Investigators now say those fears have materialised.
According to early findings, a web of officials and intermediaries allegedly colluded to process national IDs for unqualified applicants, including foreigners seeking to slip through the system.
The scheme reportedly involved corrupt registration officers, rogue clerical staff, and local power brokers who facilitated illegal documentation in exchange for payment.
Security agencies describe the network as one of the most sophisticated ID fraud operations uncovered in recent years.
North Eastern Kenya is said to be the biggest hotspot, with the relaxed vetting system creating loopholes that syndicates rapidly took advantage of.
Analysts warn that the scandal not only threatens the integrity of Kenya’s national registry but also poses a significant security risk, potentially enabling cross-border criminals to obtain legitimate Kenyan identification.
The suspects, drawn from registration offices, immigration departments, local administration units, and the business community are expected to face charges related to identity theft, abuse of office, and aiding illegal acquisition of citizenship.
Authorities say more arrests may follow as investigations deepen.
The scandal has ignited debate over whether the government should reinstate stringent vetting measures, with many arguing that national security must take precedence over administrative convenience.
The unfolding case continues to raise troubling questions about systemic vulnerabilities within Kenya’s identification and registration processes.
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