The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) of Kenya, in collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies, conducted a large-scale raid in the Shimanzi area of Mombasa, seizing counterfeit cooking oil valued at approximately Ksh 100 million (over $700,000). The joint operation involved the ACA, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the National Police Service, and other relevant government bodies.
At the scene, seven suspects were arrested and taken to Makupa Police Station for further investigation. Authorities reported that the ringleader and four accomplices remain at large, with law enforcement agencies actively pursuing them.
Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, CEO of the ACA, emphasized that the raid sends a strong message to counterfeit networks, particularly those targeting essential goods like cooking oil. “Not only does counterfeiting harm the economy, but it also poses a significant threat to the health and safety of millions of citizens,” he stated.
During the operation, authorities discovered 14 trucks loaded with counterfeit cooking oil, along with numerous 20-liter cans, drums, and packaging materials used to repackage the oil under leading Kenyan brands. The entire facility, known as “Shamba,” was sealed off as a crime scene.
According to Dr. Njoroge, preliminary investigations reveal a sophisticated network smuggling expired cooking oil from abroad into Kenya, repackaging it to deceive consumers. “These activities not only endanger public health but also cause significant losses to legitimate businesses and government revenue,” he noted.
The raid comes amid intensified anti-counterfeit efforts along Kenya’s coastal region. Last month, authorities seized counterfeit sugar worth over Ksh 10 million in Malindi. The Kenyan government has also ramped up surveillance at entry points and throughout the supply chain to safeguard public health, ensure food safety, and maintain market integrity.
The ACA is working closely with brand owners to verify infringements and protect intellectual property rights. Further investigations will focus on dismantling the entire network behind this large-scale counterfeit cooking oil operation.
“This is a clear warning to counterfeiters: Kenya will not tolerate any illegal trade activities. We will continue to crack down until the entire network is eradicated, and the rights of consumers and legitimate manufacturers are safeguarded,” Dr. Njoroge asserted.
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