By Sarafina Musyoki, January 19, 2026
The Ministry of Health is preparing to establish a dedicated anti-fraud police unit to address the growing problem of unlicensed individuals offering illegal medical services across the country.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the new unit will lead a nationwide operation against fake clinics and unqualified health workers. The officers will work closely with officials from the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to ensure compliance with medical regulations.
Duale warned that individuals operating without proper licensing will face decisive action, stressing that the government will no longer tolerate fraudulent practices within the health sector. He noted that the initiative is also aimed at curbing abuse within the Social Health Authority (SHA).
As part of the reforms, the ministry plans to roll out a digital monitoring system that will centralise data on all licensed doctors, dentists, and pharmacies, while also identifying illegal facilities. According to the CS, the system will improve oversight and make enforcement more effective.
The government will also strengthen regulation by increasing funding to the KMPDC and setting up a multi-agency task force to boost inspections and prosecutions.
The crackdown follows the recent death of Amos Isoka, who developed severe complications after undergoing a tooth extraction at an illegal clinic in Kawangware. He later died while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital. Duale announced that the hospital bills incurred during Isoka’s treatment will be fully waived.
In addition, the Ministry of Health plans to introduce a new “scope of practice” framework, which will clearly define the medical procedures each health worker is authorised to perform based on their training.
Meanwhile, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations have revisited the illegal clinic in Kawangware, where they recovered laboratory equipment, various drugs, and an identification card believed to belong to one of the suspects. Authorities have launched a manhunt to track down those involved, who remain at large.
