DCI Raids Nairobi Yard, Arrest 41 Suspects in Fuel Siphoning Syndicate

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have exposed a fuel siphoning syndicate operating in Nairobi.

DCI exposed the illegal trade after raising an undeveloped yard behind the Shell petrol station off Lunga Road, Nairobi.

During the raid, DCI cornered 41 suspects found trading in the illegal business at the facility.

"Five tankers found at the site where over 17,020 ltr of diesel, 6,110 ltr of petrol, four generators, 30 drums, siphoning pipes and jerrycans were recovered have also been impounded, with DCI Crime Scene Investigators and the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) officials documenting the scene," DCI's statement read in part.

"Acting on intelligence, the Operation Support Unit team recently deployed to curb the unbecoming trend surrounding the site, rounding up the numbers who were trading with impunity," it added.

Two trailers were seized during the raid and the fuel products were tampered with according to a report filed by the detectives.

The detectives explained that one of the trailers found at the site had documents showing that it was support to deliver fuel to New Gatitu Shell petrol station in Thika. 

However, detectives believe that the driver is part of the syndicate involved in producing adulterated fuel which is causing great damage to vehicles in the city.

Following the raid, the 41 suspects were taken into custody pending arraignment on Monday, April 15.