Three women have been arrested in Migori Township following the recovery of 55 bags of government-subsidised fertiliser allegedly being sold in breach of distribution restrictions.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the arrests followed a tip-off from members of the public, prompting detectives from Suna East to conduct an operation in Apida area, Suna Central Location.
According to the DCI, detectives found the fertiliser marked “NOT FOR SALE” in stores where it was allegedly being offered for sale.
“The operation led to the arrest of three suspects, who, upon questioning, led detectives to their respective stores,” the DCI said in a statement.
A subsequent search resulted in the recovery of 55 bags of the fertiliser, which were taken as exhibits.
The three women were escorted to Migori Police Station alongside the recovered fertiliser and booked pending further police action, the DCI said.
The agency commended members of the public for providing information that helps detectives investigate suspected criminal activities and protect public resources.
It urged members of the public to report suspected criminal activity anonymously through its toll-free number, 0800 722 203, or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.
The government introduced the National Fertiliser Subsidy Programme in 2022 to reduce the cost of farm inputs and boost agricultural production.
The scheme distributes subsidised fertiliser through designated outlets, including National Cereals and Produce Board depots and last-mile centres, with farmers registered on the government’s digital system to guide access.
There have been previously reported cases involving suspected illegal diversion and counterfeit fertiliser.
In March 2026, eight people were arrested in Kakamega following an investigation into suspected fertiliser fraud, with detectives recovering bags of fertiliser and other exhibits.
Counterfeit fertiliser has also raised quality concerns.
In March 2024, the Kenya Bureau of Standards warned farmers about a substandard product that was not part of the government subsidy programme.
