Police Bust Criminal Ring Repackaging Stolen Subsidized Fertilizer in Kisii
Investigators found sacks of counterfeit fertilizer ready for distribution, along with burned bags and traces of oil drainage, indicating efforts to destroy evidence.
An image illustrating handcuffs.
By Joy Jeelagat
Police in Kisii have dismantled a syndicate involved in the theft and repackaging of subsidized fertilizer, following a successful raid on a hideout where the illegal operation was taking place.
The operation, carried out on Tuesday, led to the arrest of two suspects, including the alleged mastermind behind the fraudulent scheme.
Authorities uncovered that the criminals were mixing the stolen fertilizer with soil and oil to darken its color, making it resemble high-quality fertilizer before reselling it to unsuspecting farmers.
Investigators found sacks of counterfeit fertilizer ready for distribution, along with burned bags and traces of oil drainage, indicating efforts to destroy evidence.
Kisii Deputy County Commissioner Grace Ouma confirmed the arrests and highlighted the ongoing investigations into the matter.
She revealed that authorities had confiscated government-issued fertilizer bags and over 45 bags of repackaged fertilizer at the site.
“We have confiscated GOK bags and over 45 bags of repackaged fertilizer. Our preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were coloring the fertilizer black using oil to meet market demand, as black fertilizer is perceived to be more effective,” Ouma stated.
The stolen fertilizer was part of the government’s recent agricultural initiative aimed at reducing farmers’ production costs and enhancing food security.
The fraudulent scheme posed a serious threat to both farmers and the country’s food production efforts.
Ouma advised farmers to exercise caution when purchasing fertilizer to avoid falling victim to such scams.
She added that public awareness campaigns would be launched to educate farmers on how to identify genuine fertilizers and authorized purchase points.
“We continue to investigate, as we suspect this could be part of a larger racket,” she added.
The police have pledged to intensify surveillance and crack down on individuals seeking to exploit government programs for personal gain. Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activities related to fertilizer sales as investigations into the racket continue.
The arrests come at a crucial time when the government is working to ensure that farmers receive affordable and quality agricultural inputs to improve productivity and bolster food security in the country. Further developments in the case are expected as authorities widen the probe.
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