The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has raised concern over a spike in cases involving adulterated fuel and the illegal sale of diesel meant for export, following inspections carried out in different parts of the country over the last three months of 2025.
In a public notice issued on December 31, EPRA said it documented multiple violations between October 1 and December 29 across Nakuru, Kakamega, Makueni, Mombasa and Marsabit counties. The regulator warned that fuel dealers and transporters found engaging in the practice will face tough action.
According to EPRA, some fuel stations and trucks were found selling diesel mixed with domestic kerosene, high-sulphur diesel or products intended strictly for export. The authority said the illegal practice compromises fuel quality and exposes motorists and businesses to serious risks.
In Nakuru, one popular petrol station was cited for selling diesel adulterated with kerosene. The station was later allowed to reopen after upgrading its fuel and paying Ksh 140,144 in taxes and penalties. In Kakamega, another filling station was shut down after inspectors found it offering adulterated diesel to customers.
A separate case was reported in Makueni, where a petrol station was penalised Ksh 132,780 for selling diesel that had been designated for export to the local market. EPRA also impounded several trucks transporting adulterated fuel or export-bound diesel, with the matters now before the courts.
In Marsabit County, enforcement officers uncovered diesel stored in jerrycans with unusually high sulphur content, believed to be smuggled fuel. Several sites at the Kenya Revenue Authority yard in Moyale had their fuel seized, and legal proceedings are ongoing.
EPRA urged members of the public to remain alert and report suspected cases of fuel adulteration or export dumping. The authority said reports can be made through its hotline number 0709 366 000, the USSD code *363#, or via SMS on 40850. A full list of sites found with adulterated fuel is also available on EPRA’s website.
Industry experts warn that adulterated fuel can cause extensive damage to vehicle engines, affecting components such as fuel injectors, pistons and catalytic converters. This often results in reduced performance, expensive repairs and, in severe cases, complete engine failure.
Beyond mechanical damage, the use of substandard fuel also raises safety concerns, including a higher risk of fires due to inconsistent combustion. It further contributes to environmental pollution through increased emissions and leads to significant losses in government revenue as taxes and levies are evaded.
EPRA said it will continue stepping up inspections and enforcement to protect consumers and uphold standards in the petroleum sector.
