Kenya’s Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has issued a stern warning to fuel retailers after uncovering widespread adulteration and the illegal sale of export-bound diesel in the local market.

In a public notice covering October to December 2025, EPRA said inspectors tested fuel at 967 sites across the country, carrying out 4,394 tests in total. While 957 sites passed the tests, ten failed and now face serious penalties.

Adulteration remains the main concern. Some dealers mix domestic kerosene with diesel to boost profits. This practice damages vehicle engines and increases harmful emissions. Authorities also found export-bound diesel, which attracts lower taxes, being sold illegally in the domestic market, depriving the government of revenue.

The notice identified the offenders and their penalties. On October 23, 2025, a filling station in Ngata, Nakuru County, was caught selling diesel mixed with kerosene. The station paid a fine of Ksh140,141 and upgraded its stock before EPRA allowed it to reopen.

On November 21, 2025, a service station in Wote, Makueni County, sold export-grade diesel locally. The station paid Ksh132,780 and corrected its stock to resume operations.

Some fuel cases persist

Other cases remain unresolved. A filling station in Bukura, Kakamega County, sold adulterated diesel in November and remains closed. Authorities impounded two trucks from a business in Likoni, Mombasa, on November 26, 2025, for carrying export diesel into the domestic market. Court proceedings are ongoing.

Another truck, owned by a business in Taita Taveta, also faces charges after tests revealed high sulphur levels and kerosene mixing.

The most serious discoveries occurred in Moyale, Marsabit County. On November 7, 2025, inspectors seized several jerrycans of high-sulphur diesel stored at a Kenya Revenue Authority yard. Authorities suspect smuggling. Four separate sites held the fuel, which remains impounded as courts determine the outcome.

EPRA noted that the ten offending sites represent only 1.01 per cent of all tested sites, showing that most retailers comply with regulations. However, the authority said it will not tolerate any breach. Under the Petroleum Act 2019 and retail licensing rules, offenders risk closure, heavy fines, vehicle seizure, and prosecution.