Sh5.4M car sold for Sh1.2M: Auctioneers linked to Matili TTI scandal quizzed

Matili TTI entrance gate. [Photo, Standard]

Two auctioneers at the center of a controversial sale of public assets belonging to Matili Technical Training Institute have presented themselves to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) for questioning.

Brown Tsuma Mukanda and Kennedy Kweyu Shikuku, the proprietors of Eshikhoni Auctioneers, appeared before EACC detectives following summons related to the alleged fraudulent auction of a vehicle belonging to the institute.

The vehicle, part of the institute's driving school fleet, was valued at Sh5.4 million but was sold for just Sh1.2 million.

Also appearing for questioning was Samson Itonde, owner of Dominion Auctioneers. Itonde is currently contracted by Ramagon Construction Company Ltd to seize and auction the institute's assets over a disputed payment claim.

However, EACC investigations have revealed that the debt claim used to justify the auctions is fake and unsupported by any legal or financial basis.

The appearance of the auctioneers is part of a broader investigation into allegations of corruption, fraudulent disposal of public property, and economic crimes involving assets of the Matili Technical Training Institute.

According to the EACC, the auctioneers are suspected of benefiting from illicit proceeds through their role in the improper disposal of public property.

Their questioning follows the arrest of three directors of Ramagon Construction Company Limited last week, who are accused of conspiring with public officials to manipulate tender values and illegally extract public funds from the institute.

EACC officials have confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that further legal action may be taken against individuals and firms found to have participated in the fraudulent scheme.