The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) has issued a public warning to agro-dealers, farmers, and the general public against the sale, distribution, possession, and use of illegal and unregistered pest control products (PCPs).

In a statement on Sunday, January 1, 2025, PCPB said recent enforcement operations in Oloitoktok Sub-County, conducted in collaboration with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), led to the arrest and arraignment of 25 individuals, including 23 farm workers and two agro-dealers.

The arrests were made for dealing in and using unregistered pest control products, in violation of Sections 3(1) and 4(1) of the Pest Control Products Act.

“Recent enforcement operations in Oloitoktok Sub-County, conducted in collaboration with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), led to the arrest and arraignment of a total of twenty-three (23) farm workers and two (2) agro-dealers found dealing in and using unregistered pest control products, contrary to Sections 3(1) and 4(1) of the Pest Control Products Act, respectively,” PCPB stated.

Areas affected

PCPB stated that the operations covered areas include Kimana, Illasit, Rombo (Ol-Mampinu area), Duka Moja, Entarara, Loitokitok, and Shokut in the Kisanjani area.

The board highlighted that illegal and unregistered pest control products pose serious risks to human health, food safety, livestock, and the environment.

The board reminded stakeholders that only pest control products registered and approved by PCPB are allowed for sale and use in Kenya, and that agro-dealers must operate from certified premises and stock only registered products. PCPB warned that offenders face arrest, prosecution, and legal penalties as provided by law.

“PCPB reminds all stakeholders that only pest control products registered and approved by PCPB are allowed for sale and use in Kenya,” the statement added.

PCPB action

PCPB further said it will continue to intensify surveillance, inspections, and enforcement operations across the country to protect farmers, consumers, and the environment.

The board urged the public to verify products before purchase or use and to report suspicious products to its customer care line at 0720 480 904.

“Offenders will face arrest, prosecution, and penalties as provided by law. PCPB will continue to intensify surveillance, inspections, and enforcement operations across the country to protect farmers, consumers, and the environment. Be compliant. Verify before you buy or use,” the board added.