Police in Eldoret have seized more than 600 bags of suspected counterfeit fertiliser during a raid on an agrovet shop in the Naiberi area along the Eldoret–Kaptagat Road, in a major crackdown ahead of the planting season.
Confirming the operation, Uasin Gishu Deputy County Commissioner Patrick Wekesa said the 60-kilogram bags of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertiliser had allegedly been tampered with after being sourced from the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depot in Eldoret.
“We have impounded over 600 bags of DAP fertiliser which preliminary investigations indicate were bought from the NCPB and later adulterated with unknown chemicals before being repackaged in counterfeit DAP bags,” Mr Wekesa said.
“This is a serious economic crime that not only defrauds farmers but also threatens food security in the region,” he said.
Police officers acting on a tip-off raided the premises on Saturday evening and recovered the consignment, which authorities estimate could have a street value exceeding Sh6million.
According to investigators, the suspect is believed to have been purchasing government-subsidised fertiliser at approximately Sh2,500 per bag and retailing the repackaged product at about Sh6,000.
Mr Wekesa confirmed that the proprietor of Kotut Balers, the business linked to the seizure, is currently at large.
“The main suspect remains at large, but we have launched a manhunt and investigations are ongoing. We will ensure all those involved face the full force of the law,” he added.
The seizure comes as farmers in Uasin Gishu County prepare their land for the long rains planting season, heightening concerns over the circulation of substandard farm inputs.
“Farmers must exercise vigilance when purchasing farm inputs. Counterfeit fertiliser not only leads to poor yields but also undermines government efforts to support agricultural productivity,” Mr Mandago said.
Police have urged farmers who may have recently purchased fertiliser from the affected outlet to seek verification from officials at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCBP) to ascertain the authenticity of their supplies.
Authorities say further forensic analysis will be conducted on the seized fertiliser as investigations continue.
