By Dorothy Musyoka
In a joint operation led by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Operations Support Unit and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS),the authorities have uncovered illegal cement activities targeting unsuspecting consumers.
Acting on intelligence and public complaints, the multi-agency operation raided hotspots in Athi River, Syokimau, and Kitengela, unearthing serious violations threatening public safety and the integrity of Kenya’s construction industry.
According to the DCI, the crackdown led to the arrest of 13 suspects linked to a range of illicit practices, including the manufacture and sale of counterfeit and substandard cement, siphoning cement from genuine bags to sell underweight products, and adulterating cement with pozzolanic dust to compromise quality.
Additionally, authorities intercepted 8 lorries loaded with improperly repackaged cement, as well as equipment used to produce counterfeit packaging for major cement brands.
“The officers managed to arrest 13 suspects involved in these illegal activities and intercepted 8 lorries found loaded with bags of cement from the major brands which was being siphoned and repackaged thus interfering with the quality of the products for more profits,” DCI stated.
The detectives cited the activities as a threat to citizens who reside in rental apartments.
“Such illegal activities by greedy businesspersons jeopardize the safety of Kenyans especially the millions who live in rental apartments, given the many tragic incidents of collapsed buildings,” added the DCI.
The suspects will be processed and arraigned on Monday as the operation expands to other regions across the country.