The logistics company which was in charge of importing Ksh214 million worth of sugar seized at the Port of Mombasa and part of it declared unfit for human consumption has denied reports that the sugar was released into the market for sale.
A statement issued by the logistics company indicated that the sugar which was seized by KRA officials is still being held at Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) warehouses.
The company further disputed claims that the 112 metric tonnes of sugar was packaged and sold to retailers in Mombasa.
“From the onset, we assure and categorically state that no such consignment has been irregularly released to the market nor was there ever any attempt to do so,” read the statement.
Additionally, the company emphasised that 19,441 bags which were in good condition were stored in the warehouses separate from the waterlogged bags.
The company further confirmed that 8,025 bags which had been waterlogged were awaiting destruction by the authorities.
“Subsequently, a seizure notice was procedurally issued by the Port Health Services Department for the 8,025 waterlogged bags from 13 containers. These were segregated and stored in our warehouses pending destruction which will be done under the supervision of the relevant authorities,” read the statement.
The sugar is stated to have been imported from Port Louis, Mauritius by a business person in October 2023 while having met quality regulations as per Kenya Revenue Authority Records.
However, the ship ferrying the sugar encountered an engine failure which led to water sipping into the containers carrying the goods.
While elaborating on the incident, the logistics company further detailed that the ship was towed by Kenya Ports Maritime Crew and later docked at the Port of Mombasa.
Consequently, the 8,025 bags of sugar from 13 containers as ascertained by the Kenya Ports Authority were contaminated by the sea water and hence declared unfit for consumption by Kenyans.
Reports also indicate that the importer had borrowed money from friends to the tune of Ksh30 million to prevent the consignment being auctioned by the taxman.
