KEBS seizes substandard extension sockets worth Ksh.2.5 million in Mombasa

The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has intercepted a container carrying over 24,000 substandard electrical extension sockets at the Mitchell Cotts Freight Station in Mombasa.

The 16-metric tonne consignment, originating from China and valued at Ksh.2.5 million, was found to violate safety standards.

KEBS says the extension sockets lacked critical safety features, posing risks of electrocution and fire.

“What I want to tell any importer bringing their products into Kenya is that we will not allow any substandard products into the country. And therefore, we are here to protect all our consumers,” said KEBS Managing Director Esther Ngari.

“For all the products getting into the country, we will not allow anything that does not meet the Kenyan standards, whether you have it inspected out of the country or you bring it for destination inspection. We are very keen and we are targeting especially all these electrical products getting into the country to make sure that none of them is allowed into our market.”

The consignment has since been handed over to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for reshipment or destruction at the importer’s cost.