NAIROBI, Kenya– The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has raised red flags over a rising trend of con artists masquerading as its enforcement officers to swindle unsuspecting business owners.
According to a public notice from KEBS, individuals linked to a private company Multi-Works and Rights Enforcements Co. Ltd, have been impersonating KEBS officials, unlawfully storming business premises and extorting money under the pretense of enforcing consumer rights.
The same pattern has since been reported in several counties, including Kakamega, Kisumu, Meru, Machakos, Mombasa, and Voi.
“These individuals are not KEBS officials. We strongly disassociate ourselves from their actions and condemn them in the strongest terms possible,” the agency stated.
KEBS clarified that the company in question, which previously claimed legitimacy through now-cancelled gazette notices, is not connected to the bureau in any capacity.
The bureau further stressed that genuine KEBS officers always carry valid identification, specifically a Certificate of Appointment and a staff ID, which the public can verify by texting the HR number to 20023 or calling the toll-free line 1545.
“When legitimate KEBS personnel conduct official duties, they must produce their Certificate of Appointment and KEBS Staff ID.”
KEBS says it is collaborating with investigative authorities to track down and prosecute those behind the scam, urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious encounters.
