DCI Dismantles Counterfeit Maize Flour Syndicate in Kasarani
The raid also uncovered equipment that investigators believe was being used to support the alleged counterfeiting operation.
Photo: DCI.
By Robert Mutasi
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have dismantled a suspected counterfeit maize flour operation following a raid on a godown in the Canaan area near Infinity Industrial Park in Kasarani Sub-County.
The operation, carried out after detectives received intelligence on the suspected racket, led to the recovery of thousands of packets of counterfeit maize flour and the arrest of seven suspects.
Investigators said the godown had been converted into a repackaging facility where maize flour was allegedly placed in packaging bearing the names and designs of established brands before being prepared for distribution to unsuspecting consumers.
Those arrested include Felix Kiprop, an employee of SARA Flour Brand, Cynthia Nakoli, a salesperson attached to the same company, loaders Joseph Kariuki and Victor Omondi Opiyo, driver Daniel Ngugi, as well as Maria Ngui and Samuel Kimilu.
Among the items recovered were 3,682 packets of a popular maize flour brand with an estimated value of KSh312,120. Detectives also seized hundreds of packets bearing the names of three other established flour brands.
The raid also uncovered equipment that investigators believe was being used to support the alleged counterfeiting operation. These included empty packaging materials bearing the branding of different maize flour manufacturers, industrial processing and packaging equipment, weighing machines, bag-sealing equipment, and date and batch marking stamps.
A Hyundai lorry, registration number KBR 092K, was also found at the premises while allegedly being loaded with the suspected counterfeit products.
Detectives raised further concerns after recovering discarded one-kilogram packaging that closely resembled that of a well-known maize flour brand.
A representative of the affected company who visited the scene confirmed that the packaging closely resembled the company’s branding. However, he said the company does not manufacture maize flour in one-kilogram packets, raising questions over the origin and intended use of the packaging.
Representatives of the affected brands have undertaken to appear before investigators to assist with verification of the recovered products and packaging.
The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has also been brought into the investigation and is expected to sample and analyse the recovered flour to establish its authenticity and determine whether it poses any health or safety risks.
The seven suspects remain in police custody as investigators process the case ahead of their arraignment. The recovered products, packaging materials, machinery and other items have been detained as exhibits.
The DCI said the investigation will continue as detectives seek to establish the wider network behind the suspected operation and how the products were being distributed.
The agency reiterated its commitment to tackling counterfeit trade and protecting consumers from fraudulent products circulating in the Kenyan market.
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