Crime Research Centre Exposes Complex Child Trafficking Networks: A groundbreaking study by the Crime Research Centre has unveiled intricate child trafficking networks operating within and beyond Kenya. The research highlights the systematic exploitation of children from vulnerable communities.
The Officer Commanding Lumakanda Police Station, Chief Inspector Wycliface Kwendo, has been charged at the Kakamega Law Courts with the alleged defilement of a 14-year-old girl. The Mombasa Law Courts have ordered two suspects, including a Tanzanian national, to be held for 21 days as investigations proceed. Kenya, Japan Collaborate on Climate-Smart Agriculture and Traffic Management: Kenya and Japan are collaborating on a climate-smart irrigation plan to boost rice production in Taita Taveta county. The plan aims to develop a comprehensive master plan for water management and agricultural development in the region.
In a separate collaboration, a joint delegation from Kenya's National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the Kenya Police Service (KPS) is undergoing intensive training in Japan. The training seeks to enhance traffic management and road safety systems in preparation for the rollout of digital speed cameras.
Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has called for the establishment of a dedicated African Climate Change Fund to finance climate action. He emphasized the need for the continent to rely on domestic resources and robust legal frameworks rather than external aid. KRA Outlines New Excise Duty Rates Amid NACADA Contraband Seizures: The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has issued a reminder concerning new excise duty changes that took effect on July 1, 2026, as stipulated by the Finance Act 2026. The new duties affect betting, juices, and other products.
In a related enforcement action, a NACADA-led operation in Meru County has busted a significant illicit alcohol and contraband cigarette network. The operation resulted in multiple arrests and seizures of counterfeit alcohol and uncustomed cigarettes, with three people arrested.
Separately, detectives from the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have busted a suspected counterfeit juice factory in Muthua, Kabete, leading to the arrest of two men. Wicknell Chivayo, Wife Among Six Killed in Zimbabwe Helicopter Crash: Prominent Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, were among six people killed when a helicopter crashed in Marondera, Zimbabwe, on Wednesday, September 30. Details emerged about the victims as news of the crash spread across the region.
Kenyan President William Ruto mourned his 'dear friend' Wicknell Chivayo following the helicopter crash. Ruto expressed condolences for the Zimbabwean businessman, his wife, and four others who perished in the incident on Wednesday evening.
Initially, Chivayo and his wife were feared dead following the helicopter crash in Marondera, eastern Zimbabwe, before confirmation came of their deaths alongside four other people. Kenya Power Confirms X Customer Account Hacked After Crypto Posts: Kenya Power has confirmed that its official X (formerly Twitter) customer care account, @KenyaPower_Care, was hacked on Tuesday, September 30. Cryptocurrency-related posts appeared on the platform following the breach of the company's social media account.
Additionally, the National Employment Authority (NEA) has issued a stern warning to Kenyans regarding scammers impersonating NEA officials via phone calls. The scammers are reportedly using the number 0747****26 to defraud jobseekers seeking employment opportunities.
In a separate warning, the State House has issued a public warning disowning an individual named Eliel Cheruiyot Kipsang who has allegedly been issuing deals in the name of President William Ruto and the First Lady. High Court Dismisses Wamatangi Bid to Halt EACC Asset Recovery: The High Court has dismissed a bid by Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi to halt a Ksh813.1 million asset recovery case initiated by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). The ruling marks a setback for the governor's efforts to block the proceedings against him.
Separately, the Senate Finance and Budget Committee has directed the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) to verify Homa Bay County's procurement records within 7 days. The committee set the deadline as part of its probe into procurement practices in the county.
Additionally, two former public employees in Kenya are facing charges for allegedly using forged academic certificates to gain employment and receive salaries from the government. Sh 2.2 Trillion Lamu Refinery Project Officially Commences: The Lamu refinery project, valued at Sh 2.2 trillion, has officially commenced construction despite ongoing scrutiny. Kiambu MPs have strongly defended the project, emphasizing its potential for economic development and job creation, while Thika Town MP Alice Ng'ang'a urged political leaders to refrain from politicising the initiative.
Pentecostal leaders are urging President William Ruto to address resident concerns regarding the proposed refinery, citing unaddressed issues from Lamu residents. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has also criticized the government for proceeding with the launch.
Titus Makhanu has raised concerns regarding a warning issued by President Ruto and the Dangote Group to those challenging the Dangote Refinery contract, suggesting potential legal action for individuals attempting to disrupt the agreement. Opposition leaders have expressed concerns that the launch process lacks accountability, accusing the President of pursuing personal interests.
President Ruto has issued a stern warning to brokers and extortionists who might attempt to disrupt investments in the country, specifically mentioning the Lamu oil refinery project.
