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Competition Authority warns against imposters targeting businesses

A view of Tom Mboya Street in Nairobi, where many businesses are located. (Photo: Courtesy)

By Amina Wako | 23 Mar 2024

Imposters have been gaining unauthorised access to business premises, seizing merchandise, imposing on-site fines, and even resorting to arrests, CAK says.

The Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) has raised the alarm over a surge in cases of impersonation targeting businesses across the nation.

In a press release on Friday, the authority said imposters posing as its representatives have been preying on businesses in parts of the country, including Mombasa, Embu, Machakos, Ruiru, Nyeri, and Meru.

The CAK reported that these imposters have been gaining unauthorised access to business premises, seizing merchandise, imposing on-site fines, and even resorting to alleged arrests, all under the guise of compliance checks related to consumer protection laws.

"It has come to our attention that unscrupulous elements are exploiting the trust and credibility of the Competition Authority of Kenya for their illicit gains," the statement reads.

"We are deeply concerned about the impact these fraudulent activities are having on the business community and consumers alike."

The CAK stressed that its official staff members are required to provide proper identification and documentary evidence confirming the authenticity of their assignment whenever they conduct mandated activities such as market surveillance.

It added that any entry and search operations are strictly authorised through a High Court-issued search warrant and conducted in the presence of security officers.

"We assure the public that the CAK neither condones nor engages in any form of unauthorised action. We are committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the protection of consumers and businesses."

The CAK announced that, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, it was conducting a crackdown and investigating all reported cases of impersonation and other illegal activities.

It urged affected parties to promptly report to the nearest police stations any encounters with individuals purporting to represent them and engaging in unauthorised activities.

The CAK further asked the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution when approached by individuals claiming affiliation with it.

"We urge all stakeholders to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly," the agency said.