More than 35,000 liters of smuggled petroleum products have been seized by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra) during a multi-agency operation in Moyale, Marsabit County. Acting on intelligence about a fuel trafficking network operating along the Kenya–Ethiopia border, enforcement officers worked alongside the Energy Police Unit and Border Patrol Unit to intercept the contraband fuel, which was brought into the country without paying taxes or meeting safety standards. Three suspects were detained and are awaiting court appearances at Moyale police station.
Epra officials said the illegal trade has hurt legitimate fuel dealers, destabilized the formal market, and exposed consumers to dangerous, unregulated products. The influx of untaxed petroleum has forced some licensed businesses to close due to unfair competition and low prices offered by smugglers. The authority warned that substandard fuel can damage vehicles, create fire hazards, and contribute to environmental pollution. Epra emphasized its ongoing commitment to nationwide enforcement, vowing to dismantle smuggling networks and prosecute offenders, while assuring the public that efforts to protect consumers and uphold industry standards will continue.
Epra officials said the illegal trade has hurt legitimate fuel dealers, destabilized the formal market, and exposed consumers to dangerous, unregulated products. The influx of untaxed petroleum has forced some licensed businesses to close due to unfair competition and low prices offered by smugglers. The authority warned that substandard fuel can damage vehicles, create fire hazards, and contribute to environmental pollution. Epra emphasized its ongoing commitment to nationwide enforcement, vowing to dismantle smuggling networks and prosecute offenders, while assuring the public that efforts to protect consumers and uphold industry standards will continue.
