The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has approved charges against several individuals and health institutions following investigations into alleged fraud at the Social Health Authority (SHA).
In a press statement dated February 25, 2026, the ODPP confirmed that it reviewed investigation files submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations between January 28 and February 24, 2026. The files detailed alleged fraudulent registration, claims, and payments linked to the authority.
Alleged Fraudulent Scheme
Investigations reportedly uncovered a scheme involving several health facilities accused of irregularly registering with SHA and receiving payments through fraudulent claims.
Prosecutors approved a range of charges including:
Conspiracy to defraud
Obtaining money by false pretences
Operating unlicensed health facilities
Acquisition of proceeds of crime
According to the statement, some facilities were operating without proper licensing in violation of the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act.
Others allegedly submitted false claims and received funds they were not entitled to from the public health insurer.
Official Implicated
The probe also implicated an official attached to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC).
The official faces charges including:
Unauthorised access to a computer system
Abuse of office
Computer fraud
Conspiracy to defraud
The DPP stated that the official allegedly used their position to unlawfully access computer systems and facilitate the fraudulent registration of health facilities, enabling them to receive payments from SHA.
Crackdown on Health Insurance Fraud
Both individuals and institutions will face charges for obtaining money by false pretence, while some suspects will also face money laundering-related charges tied to acquisition of proceeds of crime.
The prosecution office emphasised that the decision to charge followed a comprehensive review of the evidence gathered during investigations.
The developments mark a significant move in addressing fraud within Kenya’s public health insurance system — a system intended to provide affordable medical care to Kenyans.
Authorities noted that fraudulent activities not only undermine public trust but also divert vital resources meant for legitimate healthcare providers and patients.
“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions remains committed to upholding its mandate under the Constitution and the law,” the statement said.
The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court as the government intensifies efforts to crack down on fraud within public institutions.
Tags
News