21 April 2014, Nairobi – Operators of petrol stations in Kenya’s Busia county have raised the alarm over illegal sale of fuel in transit. They said some truck drivers conspire with unscrupulous middlemen to siphon fuel destined for neighbouring countries. The operators said the racket involves some clearing agents at the Busia border.
Speaking to the Star in Busia town yesterday, the operators, who sought anonymity, said they have lost business because of the cheap but smuggled fuel in the market. “We have lost scores of our clients because they are rushing to buy cheap fuel being sold through the black market,” said a petrol station owner.
He asked police to probe the racket and apprehend the culprits. Investigations by the Star yesterday confirmed the racket as some tankers were spotted offloading fuel into drums. Some trucks were packed near the Busia Baptist Church on the Busia- Kisumu highway, which is off the route they should follow.
The Star also confirmed that the truck drivers conspire with the clearing agents to siphon the fuel and hide it residential houses. The stolen fuel is later sold to some petrol stations and private car owners in Busia town at a cheaper price. Residents have expressed fear for their lives over the danger it posses on their businesses and lives.
– The Star