The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has intensified its crackdown on illicit fuel trade, closing down 10 service stations across Kenya for selling contaminated and export-bound motor fuels.
The affected stations are spread across Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Kisumu, Machakos, Makueni, Bungoma, Vihiga, Nyandarua, Kwale, Kilifi, Meru, and Mombasa counties. According to EPRA’s quarterly compliance report (July–September 2025), the closures followed 6,090 quality tests conducted at 1,315 petroleum sites, out of which 1,303 were found compliant.
Two additional stations failed compliance checks but were not shut down—one due to a pending court case and another that reopened after upgrading its product and paying the required fine.
Key Violations
- Sale of diesel with excessively high sulphur content
- Distribution of adulterated fuel mixed with kerosene
- Dumping of export-grade fuel into the local market
- Repeat non-compliance by some service stations
Consumer Protection and Public Involvement
EPRA has urged the public to actively support the crackdown by reporting suspected cases of fuel adulteration. A dedicated hotline and USSD code remain available during working hours to enhance enforcement and consumer protection.
Why EPRA’s Oversight Matters
Mandated under Section 92 of the Petroleum Act 2019, EPRA continuously monitors the quality of petroleum products sold, transported, and stored in Kenya. The Authority seeks to safeguard consumers and prevent harmful practices such as adulteration and export fuel dumping.
This latest enforcement follows a similar crackdown in July 2025, when eight stations were shut down for violating fuel quality standards. EPRA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting motorists and the public by ensuring that only clean, compliant fuels reach the market.
