A court in Eldoret has released five suspects connected to a major counterfeit fertilizer case involving 4,000 bags valued at more than Ksh 24 million. The suspects were freed unconditionally as police investigations continue.
The suspects—Rose Jemutai, Elphas Kiptoo Bett, Hillary Samoei, Hillary Kipkoech, and Vincent Kibet—appeared before Chief Magistrate Peter Ndwiga, who ordered their release during a mention hearing.
Magistrate Ndwiga also directed that samples from the seized fertilizer be sent to a government chemistry laboratory to verify the authenticity of the product. Additionally, a motor vehicle seized from the first suspect during the intelligence-led operation was ordered to be released without conditions.
Background of the Case
- The suspects were arrested last month at a homestead in Kabenes, Soy Sub-County, following allegations of repackaging expired fertilizer for distribution in the North Rift region.
- The initial tip-off came from members of the public, prompting a multi-agency raid involving detectives and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Headquarters Operations Action Team.
- The operation uncovered a significant stockpile of suspected counterfeit fertilizer, believed to be linked to an organized criminal network.
Related Operations
- Two weeks prior, detectives recovered 624 bags of suspected fake fertilizer in Moiben Sub-County during a separate operation.
- Four suspects connected to that consignment remain at large.
- The search extended to Ziwa Sirikwa, where an additional 64 bags of DAP fertilizer branded Elgon Kenya and 10 bags of Mavuno fertilizer were recovered.
The ongoing investigations aim to confirm the legitimacy of the seized farm inputs and dismantle the criminal networks involved in distributing counterfeit agricultural products in the region.
