The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has shut down ten petrol stations across the country for reportedly selling adulterated fuel to unsuspecting motorists.
This follows an impromptu inspection conducted by EPRA officials between July and September this year, where a total of 6,090 tests were conducted at 1,315 petroleum sites.
During the inspection, 1303 petrol stations were found to be compliant. However, tests conducted in 12 sites turned out to be non-compliant, resulting in the closure of the ten stations.
Counties where non-compliant stations were closed include Kisumu County, where the officers established that the site was selling adulterated diesel with domestic kerosene and export fuel.
In Mwala area of Machakos County, another station was closed for reportedly selling diesel containing high sulphur and adulterated with export fuel. A similar scenario was witnessed in Makueni County.
Similarly, in Chwele, Bungoma County, the inspectors shut down a station for allegedly offering for sale diesel meant for export. The officers also closed a station in Vihiga County for the same reason.
During the crackdown, a station in Miharati, Nyandarua and another one in Kikambala, Kilifi County, were closed for selling fuel containing high sulphur content.
Additionally, two other stations, one in Meru and another in Mombasa Counties, were shut down for reportedly offering for sale domestic kerosene adulterated with non-market fuel.
While confirming the mass closure of the stations, EPRA announced the reopening of a site in Nakuru County after the station paid Ksh102,400 in penalties for reportedly selling diesel containing high sulphur.
To ensure continuous compliance with regulations, the regulator called on members of the public to remain vigilant about petrol stations selling adulterated fuel products.
"The Authority maintains a hotline number, 0709 366 000, operational during normal working hours to enhance enforcement and compliance activities," EPRA announced.
"Members of the public are requested to report cases of petroleum fuel adulteration or export dumping. The Authority will undertake continuous monitoring of the quality of petroleum motor fuels on sale, transport and storage throughout the country," it added.
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