Coast traders warned as fake KEBS officers defraud businesses in widening scam

Business operators in the coastal region have been cautioned to be on high alert as fraudsters impersonating Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) officers continue to swindle unsuspecting traders in a growing wave of deception.

Authorities have confirmed an upsurge in reported cases from Mombasa and Kwale counties, where imposters masquerading as KEBS officials have approached various businesses under the guise of conducting inspections or offering certification services.

One of the most recent and concerning incidents occurred in Bamburi, Mombasa, where the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched investigations into the matter.

A similar case was also reported in Ngomeni, Kwale County.

Speaking in Kilifi Town, Market Surveillance Manager Peter Makan, representing the KEBS Coast Regional Manager, confirmed that the fraudulent scheme has been spreading rapidly across different areas.

“We have received several complaints involving individuals falsely identifying themselves as KEBS staff and defrauding business people. These imposters have become a real nuisance. They introduce themselves as KEBS officers when they are not,” said Makan.

Makan urged the public to demand proper identification from anyone claiming to be a KEBS official.

Official work card

“Every genuine KEBS officer carries an official work card with an employee number. Anyone unsure should verify the officer’s identity by sending the number to 20023. The system will confirm the name and status of the officer,” he explained.

He further advised business owners not to engage with individuals who fail to clearly state their purpose or origin.

“Most people fall victim because these fraudsters act quickly. We urge the public to stay alert. Every KEBS officer must identify themselves before conducting any activity.”

Makan also warned traders against purchasing or selling products without a KEBS quality mark, emphasising the dangers of consuming uncertified goods.

“The KEBS mark is the public’s assurance of safety and compliance. If a product lacks the KEBS mark, it may not have undergone any standard verification. To confirm a product’s authenticity, send its mark number to 20023,” he noted.

He added that in the event of any suspicions or complaints, individuals should immediately contact KEBS via their toll-free number 1545 or report to the EACC if there is any indication of corruption or fraudulent activity.

“The EACC is actively investigating the recent Bamburi case, and we are working with their team to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Makan disclosed.

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• Coast traders warned as fake KEBS officers defraud businesses in widening scam
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He reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to public sensitisation, noting that KEBS continues to engage communities on the ground to educate them about legitimate standardisation procedures and how to identify credible officers.

Meanwhile, KEBS’ Coast Region Manager for Quality Assurance Hassan Said Omar urged the public to remain cautious and avoid making any cash payments to individuals claiming to offer KEBS services.

“No KEBS officer is allowed to receive payments in cash. All our transactions must be completed via the official government e-Citizen portal,” Omar stated.

“KEBS follows a well-structured procedure involving technical committees and subject matter experts, be it in chemicals, engineering, or other sectors, before a product is standardised,” he said.