Kakamega, Kenya – Eight individuals have been arrested following the dismantling of a suspected fertiliser adulteration and repackaging syndicate in Ejinja Village, Rurambi Sub-County, Kakamega County, in an intelligence-led operation conducted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The arrested suspects include the alleged ringleader, Napoline Murende Wakukha, along with Isaya Chepkose Marende, Brivin Yeswa, Milkzadek Meja Nandwa, Martin Shilabula, Strola Deptica, Pascal Wathika Omusikoyo, and Jesca Bulimo.
DCI confirmed that detectives from the Operations Support Unit and their Kakamega-based counterparts raided a homestead identified as a key processing and distribution point for fraudulent fertiliser products targeting unsuspecting farmers.
“A comprehensive search of the premises yielded significant exhibits, including two motor vehicles a white Toyota Fielder (KDT 604C) and a black Mazda CX-5 (KDE 372P) both loaded with assorted fertiliser bags, full and empty,” the DCI stated.
Officers recovered large quantities of fertiliser from various brands and weights, including UREA TOSHA labelled as Government of Kenya (G.O.K) subsidised fertiliser, YARA products, BORA BORA variants, MEA CAN, DAP, and CALCIGROW granules. Investigators also found fertiliser suspected to have been tampered with, including contents from 39 bags of OCP Africa TSP labelled as G.O.K subsidised fertiliser.
Additional items seized included empty branded bags, 48 packets of cement colour pigment used to alter fertiliser appearance, and three sewing machines used for repackaging.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the syndicate exploited registered farmers by persuading them to redeem government-issued subsidised fertiliser vouchers in exchange for minor incentives. The fertiliser was then diverted, adulterated with chemical pigments to mimic higher-value products such as DAP, repackaged, and sold at prevailing market rates.
DCI further suggested potential collusion between the syndicate and individuals within select National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots, particularly in Voi and Webuye, which facilitated the irregular acquisition of subsidised fertiliser.
“While the fertiliser is legitimately collected from NCPB depots, its diversion and subsequent adulteration undermine government subsidy programmes, exposing farmers to economic loss and compromising agricultural productivity,” investigators noted.
Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) personnel processed the scene, and the suspects remain in custody pending arraignment as investigations continue.
This operation underscores ongoing government efforts to safeguard agricultural subsidies and protect farmers from fraudulent schemes that threaten both their livelihoods and national food security.
