Illegally imported maize from Tanzania impounded in Kuria West

Police in Kuria West Sub County have launched an investigation into 150 tonnes of maize allegedly smuggled from Tanzania via ungazetted entry points and impounded at Gukipimo market in Kuria West Sub County on Thursday.

Kuria West Police Commander Cleti Kimaiyo stated that several traders linked to the maize impounded are required to record statements with the office of the Director of Criminal Investigation in Kuria West Sub.

He stated that the stores where the 150 tonnes of maize were discovered yesterday were sealed by Kenya Revenue Officers (KRA) from Isebania, experts from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), and Public Health Officers.

Migori county commissioner Boaz Cherutich on Thursday led a multi-agency team in a day-long crackdown on smuggled maize.

Cherutich stated that the government is interested in learning the origins of the maize in various stores along the border, as well whether the grains have aflatoxins.

The county commissioner noted that during the exercise, which will be carried out by a multi-agency team, all traders who have maize stores in the region will be registered and their maize will be examined.

The county commissioner has also issued a warning to traders importing maize from neighboring countries, stating that the government has prohibited maize importation into the country.