Eight arrested as DCI busts fake fertilizer syndicate in Kakamega

Eight suspects have been arrested in Kakamega County following the dismantling of a suspected fertilizer adulteration and repackaging syndicate.

The suspects, led by the alleged ringleader Napoline Murende Wakukha, were apprehended in Ejinja Village, Rurambi Sub-County, during a raid conducted by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Headquarters’ Operations Support Unit alongside their Kakamega counterparts.

Others arrested in the operation are Isaya Chepkose Marende, Brivin Yeswa, Milkzadek Meja Nandwa, Martin Shilabula, Strola Deptica, Pascal Wathika Omusikoyo and Jesca Bulimo.

According to the DCI, the homestead had been under surveillance after it was identified as a key processing and distribution hub for fraudulent fertilizer products targeting unsuspecting farmers.

During the raid, detectives recovered two vehicles, both loaded with assorted fertilizer bags, some full and others empty.

Authorities also seized large quantities of fertilizer of various brands, including UREA TOSHA labelled as government-subsidized fertilizer, YARA products, BORA BORA variants, MEA CAN, DAP, and CALCIGROW granules.

Investigators further recovered fertilizer suspected to have been tampered with, including contents from 39 bags of OCP Africa TSP labelled as subsidized fertilizer.

Also found at the scene were empty branded bags, 48 packets of cement colour pigment believed to have been used to alter the appearance of fertilizer, and three sewing machines used in the repackaging process.

Preliminary investigations indicate the syndicate targeted registered farmers, convincing them to redeem government-issued fertilizer subsidy vouchers on their behalf in exchange for small incentives.

“The fertilizer would then be diverted, adulterated using chemical pigments to mimic high-value products such as DAP, repackaged, and sold at prevailing market rates,” the DCI said in a statement.

“Further intelligence suggests possible collusion between the syndicate and individuals within select National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots, notably in Voi and Webuye, facilitating the irregular acquisition of subsidized fertilizer.”

Authorities say although the fertilizer was legitimately collected from NCPB depots, its diversion and adulteration undermines government subsidy programmes, exposing farmers to losses and affecting agricultural productivity.

The scene has since been processed by Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) personnel, with the suspects remaining in custody pending arraignment.

The DCI has reiterated its commitment to protecting government programmes from criminal exploitation and urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities involving subsidized agricultural inputs to the nearest police station or DCI office.