Security officers in Nairobi have launched a manhunt for suspects believed to be involved in an alleged illegal trade of siphoned fuel.
The suspects, police said, escaped after a raid at the site where they are said to be operating the alleged business of siphoning adulterated fuel from tankers and distributing it.
During the operation conducted by detectives from the DCI’s Operations Support Unit, thousands of liters of siphoned fuel were seized.
A trailer, two fuel tankers, generators fitted with hosepipes, funnels, 20l Jerry cans and several tanks containing un-established amounts of siphoned fuel were also confiscated.
The operation was conducted following a tip-off from a member of the public.
“Acting on a tip-off by a concerned member of the public on a notable spillage and the impunity with which the illegal business operated just next to a supermarket and an open-air market, the officers moved into the compound that was concealed by a temporary iron sheet fence,” police said.
The well-organized criminal syndicate, police say, got a wind of their presence through informers hence locking the main entrance from within before escaping through a ‘panya’ route.
According to the police, the suspects are part of a group that had been arrested on April 12, in a similar raid.
During the raid, 41 suspects were rounded up and charged before being released.
The five tankers that had also been impounded at the site later released through a court order.
The operation follows increased public vigilance and security measures after the tragic Embakasi gas explosion on February 2, which resulted in multiple fatalities.
Police express gratitude for the public’s cooperation in reporting illegal activities, which aids in preventing further loss of life due to incidents like the devastating February 2nd explosion.
Additionally, the DCI encourages collaboration among stakeholders, including licensed distributors and government agencies, to collectively dismantle organized criminal networks.
