Duo charged with possession of counterfeit pesticides worth Sh 600,000 in Kenlands
Samuel Maina Wangethi and Veronica Philip Mushi arraigned on charges of possession, selling, and distributing without a license counterfeit pest control products on October 15, 2024.
Two suspects were arrested with counterfeit products and have pleaded not guilty to three counts.
The two, Samuel Maina Wangethi and Veronica Philip Mushi, were charged with three counts of possession, selling, and distributing without a license of counterfeit pest control products not registered by the Pest Control and Products Board (PCPB).
Maina and Wangethi, who appeared before Senior Resident Magistrate Priscah Nyota on Tuesday, were released on a cash bail of Sh 30,000 each.
According to the charge sheet, the two were arrested on October 14 in Nakuru's Kenlands estate, in Nakuru West sub-county.
Their arraignment follows a two-month investigation by the PCPB and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
A police officer inspecting the seized counterfeit pesticides which had been displayed at Kaptembwa police station on October 15, 2024.
Earlier in the day, Adams Nyamongo, the Regional Manager of PCPB South Rift Region, said the products are valued at around Sh. 600,000.
The arrests come as part of a wider crackdown on selling counterfeit agricultural products.
As the case proceeds, authorities urge farmers and consumers to remain vigilant and purchase pesticides only from licensed and reputable dealers.
The case was scheduled to be mentioned on October 29.