Major Seizure of Smuggled Petroleum Products in Moyale
In a significant multi-agency operation, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra) has intercepted over 35,000 litres of smuggled petroleum products in Moyale, Marsabit County. This operation targeted a fuel smuggling network that is believed to be exploiting porous border routes between Kenya and Ethiopia to traffic illegal petroleum products into the country without paying taxes or adhering to safety standards.
The enforcement mission was led by Epra deputy director Major Augustine Ouma and involved collaboration with the Energy Police Unit, the Border Patrol Unit, and other enforcement officers from the authority. The operation followed intelligence gathered on the activities of the smuggling cartel.
During the operation, three suspects were arrested and are currently being held at Moyale police station pending arraignment. In a statement, the state agency highlighted the importance of this operation, stating:
“In a high-level multi-agency operation conducted in Moyale, Marsabit County, our ever vigilant Surveillance and Enforcement team has today seized over 35,000 litres of smuggled petroleum products being trafficked into the country through porous border routes.”
Impact of Illegal Fuel Trafficking
The illegal trade of petroleum products has been causing significant harm to legitimate fuel dealers and threatening the stability of the formal energy market. According to Epra, this illicit activity is shutting down licensed fuel stations, denying government revenue, and exposing Kenyans to unsafe products. Ouma emphasized the authority’s commitment to dismantling these networks, stating:
“We will continue dismantling these networks, and every offender will face full legal consequences.”
Epra noted that the infiltration of untaxed and unregulated petroleum products has resulted in unfair competition in the sector. Some licensed dealers have been forced to scale down or close operations due to unsustainably low prices offered by smugglers. Additionally, the authority warned that such products pose serious public safety risks, as they often fail to meet required quality standards.
Risks Associated with Smuggled Fuel
Poorly refined fuel can damage vehicle engines, cause fire hazards during transportation and storage, and contribute to environmental pollution. Epra is mandated to regulate the importation, refining, storage, transportation, and marketing of petroleum products in Kenya. Its role includes ensuring that all petroleum sold to consumers meets the legal quality and safety requirements while also protecting government revenue and market stability.
The authority also oversees pricing regulations for fuel products, routinely issuing monthly price reviews to safeguard consumers from exploitation while ensuring sustainability in the supply chain.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Smuggling
The latest seizure is part of Epra’s ongoing nationwide efforts to eliminate cartels and restore integrity to the energy sector. The authority assured the public that enforcement operations will continue and warned those involved in illegal trade to cease or risk arrest and prosecution.
“Epra remains steadfast in safeguarding Kenya’s energy sector, and assures the public of continuous nationwide enforcement to protect consumers, secure revenue, and uphold industry standards,” Epra stated.