BUNGOMA, Kenya – A man has been arrested in Bungoma County after detectives uncovered a suspected sugar repackaging syndicate and recovered more than 200 bags of sugar and 1,700 empty branded bags during a crackdown on uncustomed goods.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the operation was conducted at Bukembe Shopping Centre in Bungoma South Sub-County after detectives received actionable intelligence concerning suspected illegal trade in sugar.
A joint team from the Operations Support Unit (OSU) and DCI Bungoma South raided premises linked to a suspect identified as Paul Mwangi.
Detectives recover West Valley Sugar
During the raid, detectives recovered 76 bags of 50kg West Valley Sugar from the premises.
They also found nine bags of sugar that had already been repackaged in Chinese-branded sacks.
In addition, officers recovered 10 empty 50kg bags bearing the Mayuge Sugar brand, a Ugandan sugar brand.
The DCI said the discoveries raised suspicion that the premises were being used to repackage and rebrand sugar under different identities.
Sugar found in suspected transport van
Detectives also searched a white Nissan Vanette, registration number KDG 347E, which was linked to Mwangi.
The search resulted in the recovery of another 26 bags of West Valley Sugar.
According to investigators, the sugar was suspected to have been intended for transportation and distribution.
The officers subsequently proceeded to a godown owned by Mwangi, located south of Bukembe Shopping Centre.
98 more bags recovered
At the godown, detectives recovered an additional 98 bags of 50kg West Valley Sugar.
They also discovered 1,700 empty 50kg bags bearing the West Valley Sugar brand.
The recovery of the empty branded packaging has heightened suspicions that the premises may have been part of a wider operation involving the repackaging and distribution of sugar under different identities.
Crime Scene Investigation officers processed and documented the premises, while the recovered exhibits were secured to support ongoing investigations.
Suspect remains in custody
Mwangi remains in custody as detectives investigate the suspected syndicate.
Investigators are working to establish the full extent of the operation and trace its supply and distribution networks.
The DCI said the crackdown is part of efforts to protect consumers, safeguard legitimate businesses and dismantle criminal networks involved in uncustomed and illegally repackaged goods.
The agency has urged members of the public to provide information through its #FichuaKwaDCI campaign.
Members of the public can call the DCI’s toll-free number 0800 722 203 or submit information anonymously through WhatsApp.
