A multi-agency security team in Nakuru on Tuesday March 19, 2024 impounded fake planting maize seeds in Njoro.
The seeds were impounded at a company near Gold estate.
According to Nakuru County Commissioner Loyford Kibaara, the raid at the company that is licensed to sell timber was done after a tip-off from members of the public who had suspected the deals in fake seeds.
He added that officers from KEPHIS and Kenya Seed reported to the DCI who raided the area where 101 Kgs of treated seeds ready for market were impounded.
During the raid the officers also confiscated seed machines, 8 sacks of untreated Kenya Seed, glue, stickers, sewing machines and items for labeling.
The stickers were identified as fake after analysis by security team.
One suspect was also arrested in connection to the same.
County Commissioner Kibaara who addressed Journalists on Wednesday March 20, at the DCI Nakuru offices, said investigations are on.
He called on Kenyans and more so farmers to be careful during this planting season where fake dealers are emerging.
“We want to appeal to Kenyans to be alert. We have directed NGAO officers and police to also be vigilant especially in dispensing shops for the seeds especially maize to avert such cases,” he said.
Sentiments echoed by Simon Maina-Acting Director Seed Certification-Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate.
He added that with the approaching planting season, they are keen on quality of seeds.
“We have sent our officers to the ground to check out quality. We are working with farmers and that’s why we need to get information of any suspected cases of fake seeds. We urge farmers to get seeds from the right sources,” he said.
Author: Pristone Mambili
A trained Journalist with passion for Radio and online Writing.