Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi has reiterated the government’s commitment to protect local farmers from illicit milk imports.
Speaking when he inspected confiscated goods at the Kenya Revenue Authority ICD in Nairobi, Linturi lauded the current operation by a multi-agency team that has led to the seizing of illegal milk products valued at more than Sh150 million.
Linturi who was accompanied by the Agriculture and Livestock PS Jonathan Mueke as well as officials from the Kenya Dairy Board and KRA said illicit imports have not only jeopardized the nation but have also resulted in a Sh52 million loss in taxes.
“I want to laud the efforts by the KDB, KRA, and the Directorate of Criminal Investigation for the multiagency crackdown that led to the seizing of illegal milk products valued at over Sh150 million,” Linturi said.
"As we strive for a 12 billion litre annual milk production, we are committed to protecting our farmers from deceitful business practices. Illicit imports not only jeopardized our nation but also resulted in a staggering Sh52M loss in taxes, not to mention the health risks posed by uninspected products,” the CS said.
He noted that as a country there are plans to initiate a dialogue with neighbouring countries to align regional tax regimes and thwart elusive operators.
His sentiments come barely a week after an intelligence-led operation conducted by the Operations Support Unit (OSU) detectives to nab cartels selling contraband milk powder led to the seizure of over 32.5 tonnes at a godown located along the Eastern Bypass, Nairobi.
In the sting operation on Thursday, January 4, an unsuspecting known broker in Eastleigh directed an undercover detective to the Kamakis area along Eastern Bypass, after he (the officer) posed as a potential buyer.
On arrival, a truck loaded with an agreed 150 bags each weighing 25 kilograms arrived.
According to police, the agreed price was Sh16,500 per bag, translating to Sh2,475,000 in the transaction.
The truck was under the escort of the consignment owner who was driving a Toyota Prado and who is believed to be the main supplier to business people within Nairobi.
