KEBS warns Kenyans of fraudsters impersonating its officers, extorting businesses
The impostors have been operating across several counties, raiding shops and entertainment spots and demanding bribes.
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has warned the public and business owners to be cautious of fraudsters impersonating its officers while carrying out illegal inspections and extorting money under the guise of consumer protection.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, KEBS said it has received numerous complaints about individuals falsely claiming to work for the bureau, while targeting businesses with fake enforcement operations.
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The impostors have been operating across several counties, raiding shops and entertainment spots and demanding bribes.
“It has come to the attention of the KEBS that certain individuals are falsely claiming affiliation with KEBS and unlawfully engaging in enforcement activities under the pretext of implementing the Consumer Protection Act. KEBS strongly disassociates itself from these activities and condemns them in the strongest terms possible,” read the statement.
The bureau revealed that the group behind the scam has been reported in various parts of the country. In one of the most alarming incidents, which occurred on June 16 in Bomet County, the fraudsters raided shops and entertainment joints in Longisa, Merigi and Kembu, collecting up to Sh20,000 in bribes per establishment.
“Numerous complaints from the public and business community across the country reveal an organised and widespread pattern of fraudulent conduct,” KEBS stated.
Similar reports have emerged from Kakamega, Kisumu, Meru, Machakos, Voi and Mombasa, indicating that the impersonation scheme is systematic and well-organised.
KEBS clarified that the individuals behind the scam have no connection to the bureau, and that official records do not support any claim of affiliation.
The agency also addressed past attempts by the group to justify their actions using government notices, saying those gazette notices had already been cancelled earlier this year and are no longer valid.
To protect the public, KEBS urged Kenyans to verify the identity of any person claiming to be one of its officers. According to the bureau, all legitimate officers must present a Certificate of Appointment under the Standards Act and a KEBS staff ID card.
The identity of the officer can be verified by sending the HR number on the ID card via SMS to 20023, which will return the officer’s name, ID number, designation, and employment status.
Alternatively, verification can be done by calling the KEBS toll-free line 1545 or emailing [email protected]. The agency reminded the public that genuine KEBS staff do not collect bribes, do not issue fines on the spot, and are not authorised to arrest or detain anyone during enforcement operations.
“Legitimate KEBS officers do not demand bribes, do not impose on-the-spot fines, and do not carry out arrests or detentions,” the statement added.
KEBS urged anyone who encounters suspicious individuals posing as its staff to report immediately, as investigations into the fraud are ongoing.
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