Energy ministry says crackdown on illegal LPG traders to intensify

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has rejected claims of unfair treatment towards LPG traders nationwide. In response to opposition accusations of the government seizing LPG cylinders from traders unlawfully, Wandayi emphasized that only unauthorized refilling stations are being targeted to enhance public safety.

He emphasized in a statement, "LPG safety is paramount to the consumer and for this reason we urge politicians to refrain from attacks to public officers and law enforcement agencies legitimately performing their duties as required by Law."

On Wednesday, DCP Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua claimed that the government had seized 200,000 LPG gas cylinders from traders. The government affirmed its commitment to combating illegal refills and trade of cooking gas. Gachagua assured the public that the government would not yield to pressure from politicians and cartels seeking to profit from illicit LPG trade. He further stated, "The crackdown on illegal LPG operations will be intensified until full compliance is achieved."

Wandayi also dismissed allegations that the police were conducting the crackdown improperly. He assured that the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) works in collaboration with the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to combat illegal activities in the LPG sub-sector. When illegally refilled cylinders are discovered and confiscated, Wandayi explained, due process is followed, which includes inventory taking witnessed by the Authority, the Police, and the operator involved. Once the operator receives a fair hearing, any subsequent legal or administrative action is taken.