KRA managers questioned in ongoing tax evasion probe

Top managers at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) were yesterday questioned by the police on claims of abetting tax evasion and bribery.

The station managers were summoned to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations headquarters where they recorded statements.

Some were questioned at KRA headquarters. This came as the staff at the taxman protested what they termed harassment and intimidation.

The aggrieved workers made their complaints through a letter to KRA board chairman Francis Muthaura.

They asked Muthaura to address disciplinary issues and alleged harassment and intimidation.

They are displeased with how transfers are carried out. They also lamented over what they termed poor communication, alleged disjointed leadership and poor working environment. They want an order for them not to carry food to the office reversed.

The staff are also unhappy with the recruitment and promotion process as well as career progression. They asked Muthaura to address their remuneration and benefits.

“A happy workforce that operates with the support of the management will ensure a very prosperous KRA,” said part of the letter.

Some staff claimed excise stamps on imports is the reason they are being 'harassed'.

“Some staff know the scam of Excisable Goods Management System in which they are involved. That is why we are witnessing all this,” said an insider who asked not to be named.

Police say other than arresting more suspects, they also want to conduct a forensic examination on mobile phones, computers and other electronics obtained from over 70 suspects so far arrested.

“The activities of the suspects pose a great risk to the mainstay of the economy hence risking national security,” police sources said.