Kenya Airways has reportedly suspended several staff members for allegedly pilfering funds from the already cash-strapped airline as revealed through investigations by Deloitte Consulting.

Deloitte, which KQ hired to audit financial decisions and practices dating back five years, pinpointed about six individuals whom it suspects are taking advantage of "system and internal control weaknesses" to enrich themselves.

These individuals, most of whom the Daily Nation has established work in the airline's finance department, have been asked to step aside as Deloitte and KQ conclude investigations, which could culminate in criminal proceedings.

"The company is evaluating the findings with a view to further action against culpable staff, including potential criminal prosecution and recovery proceedings, as appropriate," KQ's management said in a statement.

The national carrier, which has posted losses for three consecutive years, enlisted the help of Deloitte in February to conduct a review of its operations, seeking to identify and plug its cash flow leakages.