A fuel tanker has been seized by police in Eldoret following allegations that its driver siphoned off more than KSh2 million worth of fuel before abandoning the vehicle in Uasin Gishu County.
According to the police, the tanker was loaded at a depot in Eldoret with a large consignment of petroleum products intended for export.
The driver was expected to deliver the fuel to its designated destination within the scheduled timeline.
However, the vehicle failed to reach its intended delivery point, prompting concerns from the company and leading the law enforcement involvement.
The driver reportedly went missing after the incident, abandoning the tanker along the way.
This unusual disappearance raised immediate suspicion of foul play, specifically fuel theft through siphoning.
Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss Daniel Muleli confirmed that preliminary investigations point to deliberate theft.
He added that the tanker was later recovered and abandoned, and that the entire consignment never reached its intended destination.
Also Read: Police Close Nairobi CBD Roads Ahead of Ruto’ s Address
The vehicle has since been taken into police custody, where it will remain as investigations continue.
The police said they are working to determine the full extent of the theft, recover any remaining or diverted fuel, and establish whether the driver had accomplices who may have assisted in the illegal diversion and sale of petroleum products.
The case is being treated as a serious economic crime involving the illegal diversion of petroleum products, a growing concern in the country’s fuel supply chain.
Motorists Face Growing Disruption as Fuel Scarcity Spreads,
Motorists across the country are struggling to access fuel, with some petrol stations now posting “No Fuel” signs as the effects of the Middle East conflict bite. The situation has raised concerns among road users as queues lengthen and options dwindle in several areas.
The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has warned that the nationwide petrol shortage could worsen, contradicting the government’s claim that existing fuel reserves are sufficient to cover the next three months.
Also Read: NPS Sets Up Specialized Police Unit at American Company Del Monte
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has maintained that the government-to-government fuel supply arrangement has shielded the country from short-term disruptions linked to developments in the Gulf region and continues to ensure the steady availability of petroleum.
However, MAK says the shortage is being deliberately manufactured to pave the way for higher fuel prices in the upcoming review cycle, stating that official reassurances are inconsistent with motorists’ daily experiences.
The association further claims that such practices persist with the quiet approval of the Ministry, resulting in drivers being left stranded without recourse.
“Downstream fuel stations are hoarding product, creating an artificial scarcity to justify an upcoming price hike,” part of the statement read.
“These retailers are operating with the silent blessing of the Ministry, assured that no regulatory action will be taken against them for withholding essential supplies.”
