More than 30 tonnes of fertiliser believed to be counterfeit have been seized in Matungu, Kakamega County, following a security operation.
Officials say the product was found after reports emerged that government-subsidised fertiliser meant for farmers was being illegally repackaged and sold at higher commercial prices.
According to security sources, the confiscated fertiliser is currently under investigation. Authorities are examining claims that the subsidised bags, which are supposed to reach farmers at lower prices through official channels, were being diverted.
The bags were allegedly emptied or altered and then sold in the open market where prices are much higher.
This kind of diversion hurts ordinary farmers who depend on the government subsidy to afford fertiliser for their crops. When the subsidised product is taken out of the official system and sold commercially, the intended beneficiaries miss out.
It also creates unfair competition for legitimate traders and can reduce trust in the subsidy programme.
Police and other security agencies in Kakamega County have confirmed they are following up on the matter.
They are looking into how the fertiliser left the official distribution chain and who may have been involved in the alleged repackaging. Samples of the seized product are expected to be tested to confirm whether it is genuine or counterfeit.
Local residents in Matungu have expressed concern over the discovery. Many farmers in the area rely on the subsidised fertiliser to improve their harvests.
Any disruption or fraud in the system can affect food production and household incomes.
Officials have urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities involving fertiliser distribution so that such cases can be stopped early.
The government has in recent years expanded fertiliser subsidies to support agriculture and food security. Programmes of this nature aim to make inputs more affordable, especially for small-scale farmers.
However, cases of diversion and counterfeiting continue to surface from time to time in different parts of the country. Security teams say they remain on alert and will take action whenever such reports are received.
Investigations are still ongoing.
No arrests have been publicly confirmed in connection with the Matungu seizure at this stage. Authorities have stated that anyone found to have taken part in the illegal activities will face the full force of the law.
Further details are expected once the probe is completed and laboratory results on the fertiliser are available.
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