Police in Marsabit County have seized 180 jerricans of suspected counterfeit cooking oil believed to have been smuggled into Kenya from neighbouring Somalia.
The consignment was intercepted during an operation conducted early Monday at the KBC area on the outskirts of Marsabit Town. It was being transported in a Nissan public service vehicle when officers flagged it down for inspection.
Marsabit County Police Commander Leonard Kimaiyo said initial investigations suggest the cooking oil entered the country illegally.
According to the police commander, officers from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) were called to verify the consignment and established that the goods had not undergone the required customs clearance or tax procedures.
“The consignment had not been taxed in accordance with the law,” Mr. Kimaiyo said.
The vehicle’s driver was taken into custody and is expected to appear before court on Tuesday to answer charges related to smuggling and possession of uncustomed goods.
Mr. Kimaiyo cautioned members of the public against purchasing products from questionable sources, noting that counterfeit and substandard goods could endanger consumers’ health.
He further encouraged residents to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by reporting suspected cases of smuggling and the sale of illegal goods.
“We appreciate the continued cooperation from members of the public and urge them to remain vigilant by reporting suspicious activities involving illicit products,” he said.
Police have launched further investigations to establish the origin of the seized cooking oil and identify those behind the suspected smuggling network. The suspect remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
