NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has issued a public warning disassociating itself from individuals operating under the guise of a consumer rights protection organisation, who have allegedly been extorting money from businesses while impersonating KEBS officials.
In a notice published Friday, KEBS said it had received numerous complaints from the public and the business community about fraudulent enforcement activities being carried out across multiple counties.
“Numerous complaints from the public and business community across the country reveal an organised and widespread pattern of fraudulent conduct,” KEBS stated.
According to the Bureau, the impostors falsely claimed to be affiliated with KEBS while carrying out unauthorised inspections and raids, citing the Consumer Protection Act to justify their actions.
The most recent incident occurred on June 16, 2025, in Longisa, Merigi, and Kembu business centres in Bomet County, where individuals claiming to be KEBS officers reportedly raided retail outlets and entertainment joints, extorting bribes of up to KSh 20,000 per shop.
Similar cases have also been reported in Kakamega, Kisumu, Meru, Machakos, Voi, and Mombasa, suggesting a well-coordinated, nationwide scheme.
How to Verify Legitimate KEBS Officials
KEBS clarified that genuine KEBS officers are required to identify themselves with a Certificate of Appointment under the Standards Act (Cap 496) and a valid KEBS Staff Identification Card.
“Legitimate KEBS personnel must produce their Certificate of Appointment as inspectors under the Standards Act and a KEBS Staff ID, which can be verified by sending the HR number via SMS to 20023,” the agency stated.
The Bureau emphasized that all its enforcement activities are conducted strictly in line with Cap 496 of the Laws of Kenya and the Fair Administrative Action Act No. 4 of 2015.
Public Alert and Call for Vigilance
KEBS is urging all business operators and members of the public to remain vigilant and immediately verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a KEBS officer before allowing inspections or providing any payments.
“We encourage anyone approached by suspicious individuals to demand proper identification and verify their legitimacy. Report any misconduct or suspicious activity to the nearest KEBS office,” the statement added.
The Bureau assured that it is working with relevant authorities to investigate the scam and take action against those behind the fraudulent operations.
