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19,000 Counterfeit Fertilizer Bags Seized By Anti_ Counterfeit Authority In Nairobi Raid
The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), in collaboration with key enforcement agencies, has successfully conducted a raid leading to the seizure of approximately 19,000 counterfeit fertilizer bags in Nairobi’s Kariokor area.
This operation follows complaints from legitimate fertilizer manufacturers and trademark owners regarding the proliferation of fake agricultural inputs.
The raid comes at a critical time, as Kenya approaches the onset of the planting season, when demand for agricultural inputs surges.
Unscrupulous traders often exploit this period to introduce counterfeit
products into the market, putting farmers at risk of using ineffective or harmful inputs that can significantly impact crop yields and food security.
ACA Regional Manager for Nairobi, Mr. Abid Abikar, confirmed that the empty counterfeit bags, each with a 50kg capacity, were discovered at the illegal facility, ready for filling and distribution.
“This seizure underscores our commitment to protecting farmers from fraudulent agricultural inputs thatcompromise food security and undermine trust in the market,” said Mr. Abikar.
19,000 Counterfeit Fertilizer Bags Seized By Anti_ Counterfeit Authority In Nairobi Raid
Authorities are currently investigating a suspected ringleader of the syndicate, with legal proceedings expected to follow.
The raid marks a significant milestone in ACA’s continuous efforts to combat counterfeiting and safeguard Kenya’s agricultural sector.
A representative from the trademark-owning company, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed appreciation for the government’s proactive intervention.
“Counterfeit products erode farmer trust and damage the credibility of genuine brands. We remain committed to offering the best products in the market and appreciate the government’s support in eradicating these illegal activities,” they stated.
If these 19,000 counterfeit bags had entered the market as filled 50kg fertilizer bags, they would have amounted to 9.5 million kg of counterfeit fertilizer, defrauding unsuspecting farmers.
At an estimated market value of KSh 3,000 per bag, this represents a potential loss of KSh 57 million, posing a significant financial and agricultural risk.
ACA urges all stakeholders, including farmers, distributors, and consumers, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities concerning counterfeit agricultural products.
Counterfeiting not only affects productivity and livelihoods but also poses a serious threat to national food security.
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