The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) flagged the Mradi gas site in Embakasi, which burst into flames, deeming it illegal in March 2020.
A statement by the authority then indicated that they raided the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) plant in a joint operation with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
During the crackdown, the authority arrested three individuals who were found at the site as they emptied gas from a truck into cylinders.
The authority proceeded to tear down the property using bulldozers, warning Kenyans from purchasing gas from unregulated dealers.
However, EPRA did not issue any further details of the arrests of the operators of the plant after that report.
“The two illegal sites were located at Mradi area in Embakasi, Nairobi County. The Authority will continue collaborating with statutory authorities to enforce and ensure full compliance with the Petroleum (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) Regulations, 2019.” EPRA indicated in the statement.
Also Read: How to Detect Original Cooking Gas Before Buying – EPRA
Fire Breaks Out at Embakasi Gas Station
The government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura confirmed on Friday, February 2, that two people died in the Thursday night explosion that resulted in a huge fire.
According to Mwaura, a lorry loaded with gas exploded, igniting a huge ball of fire that spread widely. The flying gas cylinder hit Oriental Godown, burning down the said godown which deals with garments and textiles.
“Consequently, the inferno further damaged several vehicles and commercial properties, including many small and medium-sized businesses. Sadly, residential houses in the neighbourhood also caught fire, with a good number of residents still inside as it was late at night
“As a result, two fellow Kenyans have regrettably lost their lives while being attended to at the Nairobi West Hospital. The government sends its most sincere to the families of the departed souls,” said Dr Mwaura.
Also Read: Deaths Confirmed After Embakasi Night Fire
EPRA Fines and Penalties for Selling Fake Cooking Gas Cylinders
Any person found selling fake cooking gas cylinders is liable to a fine of Ksh10 million among other penalties in accordance with the law and the LPG regulations 2019.
EPRA over the years has raised concerns over the safety of gas cylinders, especially the popular brands in the country.
On September 6, the authority discovered an illegal gas refilling plant in Nairobi’s Industrial Area, during a raid that targeted various locations in Nairobi.
The Petroleum Act, which governs operations in the energy and petroleum sector, prohibits any entity or person from refilling a branded cylinder without prior consent from the brand’s owner.
