Suspects posing as KEBS officials arraigned

The two are also accused of misleading police officers into believing they were genuine KEBS officials while on official duty.

EACC then launched an operation at Kadzandani Mwatamba Police Station, where the detained shop owners were being held and extorted.

According to the anti-graft agency, investigations revealed that the suspects had engaged in similar activities in other parts of the country.

KEBS had earlier raised concerns about fraudsters conducting illegal product inspections in retail outlets, violating the Standards Act.

“KEBS has received numerous complaints against the above-mentioned organization from retailers across the country. The complaints include invasion of business premises, seizure of goods, on-the-spot fines, solicitation of bribes, and detention of individuals to extort ransom money,” the Standards Bureau said in a notice.

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority also warned about individuals harassing business owners under the pretense of enforcing the anti-counterfeit act.

“The agency mentioned operates under a power of attorney and assignment mandates issued by Hannida Care Product Manufacturers, a company based in the Industrial Area, Nairobi. While they have specific responsibilities towards the brand, they are not ACA counterfeit inspectors,” it said.

KEBS and the Anti-Counterfeit Authority have urged the public to remain vigilant and promised legal action against the suspects.

The suspects were arraigned at the Mombasa Law Court today.