Eight suspects have been arrested following the dismantling of a fertilizer adulteration and repackaging syndicate in Kakamega County, in a major crackdown by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) targeting fraud in the agricultural sector.
The suspects were nabbed during an intelligence-led operation at Ejinja Village in Rurambi Sub-County, where detectives uncovered what they described as a processing and distribution hub for fake fertilizer products.
Taking to social media on Friday, March 20, 2026, DCI stated that those arrested include the alleged mastermind Napoline Murende Wakukha, alongside Isaya Chepkose Marende, Brivin Yeswa, Milkzadek Meja Nandwa, Martin Shilabula, Strola Deptica, Pascal Wathika Omusikoyo, and Jesca Bulimo.
“Eight suspects have been arrested following the dismantling of a suspected fertilizer adulteration and repackaging syndicate in Ejinja Village, Rurambi Sub-County, Kakamega County, after a targeted, intelligence-led operation by detectives,” DCI stated.
“The arrested individuals include the principal suspect, Napoline Murende Wakukha, alongside Isaya Chepkose Marende, Brivin Yeswa, Milkzadek Meja Nandwa, Martin Shilabula, Strola Deptica, Pascal Wathika Omusikoyo, and Jesca Bulimo.”
According to the DCI, a joint team drawn from its Operations Support Unit and Kakamega offices conducted the raid after weeks of surveillance and actionable intelligence.
Investigators established that the premises was being used to illegally handle and alter Government of Kenya (G.O.K) subsidized fertilizer intended for farmers.
“A joint team of detectives drawn from DCI Headquarters — Operations Support Unit and their Kakamega-based counterparts conducted the raid at a homestead that had been identified as a processing and distribution point for fraudulent fertilizer products targeting unsuspecting farmers,” the statement reads.
“The operation followed sustained surveillance and actionable intelligence, which established that the premises was being used for the illegal handling of Government of Kenya (G.O.K) subsidized fertilizer.”
During the operation, detectives recovered two vehicles, a Toyota Fielder and a Mazda CX-5, both loaded with fertilizer bags, some full and others empty.
Authorities also seized large quantities of fertilizer of various brands, including UREA TOSHA labelled as subsidized fertilizer, YARA products, BORA BORA variants, MEA CAN, DAP, and CALCIGROW granules.
Of particular concern was fertilizer suspected to have been tampered with, including contents from 39 bags of OCP Africa TSP labelled as government-subsidized input.
In addition, officers recovered empty branded bags, 48 packets of cement colour pigment believed to have been used to alter the appearance of fertilizer, and three sewing machines used for repackaging the products for resale.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the group targeted registered farmers by persuading them to redeem government-issued subsidy vouchers on their behalf in exchange for small incentives.
The fertilizer would then be diverted, adulterated using pigments to mimic high-value products such as DAP, repackaged, and sold at full market prices.
Detectives also suspect possible collusion with individuals linked to National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots in Voi and Webuye, which may have facilitated the irregular acquisition of subsidized fertilizer.
Authorities warned that such practices undermine government subsidy programmes, expose farmers to financial losses, and threaten agricultural productivity.
The scene has since been processed by Crime Scene Investigation personnel, with the suspects remaining in custody pending arraignment in court.
The DCI reiterated its commitment to protecting key government programmes from exploitation and ensuring those involved in economic sabotage are brought to justice.
Members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving the illegal handling or sale of subsidized farm inputs.
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