Over 150 illegal fuel dens in Industrial Area demolished in major multi-agency operation
The operation's primary aim was to clear the illegal structures and prevent further illegal activities within the gazetted areas of Nairobi’s fuel depots.
Over 150 illegal fuel dens were demolished on Thursday in an extensive multi-agency operation along Nairobi's Nanyuki Road in Industrial Area.
This action is part of a broader initiative to combat the rising issue of fuel siphoning and tax evasion, which has caused a significant loss of government revenue.
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The operation also addressed potential safety hazards posed by the illegal structures, many of which had become a serious fire and explosion risk.
The operation was led by Makadara Deputy County Commissioner Philip Koima, supported by Makadara Police Commander Judith Nyongesa, County Inspectorate Director of Enforcement William Kangogo, and officials from the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra).
While the operation was largely successful, it faced some resistance from individuals associated with the illegal fuel trade, but the presence of armed anti-riot and undercover officers helped ensure the operation’s success.
Koima explained that the operation had been in planning for several months. However, it was delayed due to issues related to the mobilisation of resources.
"We had several public participation forums attended by relevant stakeholders. Evacuation notices were issued to the illegal structure owners, advising them to vacate the protected and gazetted zone, but they defied," Koima explained to the Daily Nation.
The illegal fuel dens, which included kiosks and makeshift kitchens, were a major safety concern, especially due to the petroleum products stored in the structures.
The operation's primary aim was to clear the illegal structures and prevent further illegal activities within the gazetted areas of Nairobi’s fuel depots.
As part of the ongoing effort, institutional property owners along Nanyuki Road were urged to make improvements to their landscaping to prevent future encroachments.
The authorities have emphasised that further operations will be carried out to ensure that the area remains secure and free from illegal fuel activities.
This action is part of a broader government strategy to eradicate fuel siphoning operations, which have contributed to significant revenue losses.
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