Fresh Details Emerge in Kshs214M Contaminated Sugar Saga
The logistics firm responsible for handling the import of sugar valued at Ksh214 million, which was confiscated at the Port of Mombasa with a portion deemed unsuitable for human consumption, has refuted claims that the sugar was allowed to enter the market for sale.
A communication from the logistics company has conveyed that the sugar confiscated by KRA officials is currently retained in the warehouses of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
The company also contested allegations that the 112 metric tonnes of sugar were packaged and distributed to Mombasa retailers.
“From the onset, we assure and categorically state that no such consignment has been irregularly released to the market nor was there ever any attempt to do so,” read the statement.
Furthermore, the company highlighted that 19,441 bags in satisfactory condition were kept in storage facilities distinct from those affected by waterlogging.
The company additionally verified that 8,025 bags, saturated with water, were pending disposal under the supervision of the authorities.
“Subsequently, a seizure notice was procedurally issued by the Port Health Services Department for the 8,025 waterlogged bags from 13 containers. These were segregated and stored in our warehouses pending destruction which will be done under the supervision of the relevant authorities,” read the statement.
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In October 2023, a business individual imported sugar from Port Louis, Mauritius, and it complied with quality regulations according to the records of the Kenya Revenue Authority.
Nevertheless, the vessel transporting the sugar experienced a malfunction in its engine, resulting in water seeping into the containers holding the cargo.
Expanding on the event, the logistics firm provided additional information, specifying that the vessel was towed by the Kenya Ports Maritime Crew and subsequently arrived at the Port of Mombasa.
As a result, the 8,025 sugar bags identified by the Kenya Ports Authority in 13 containers were tainted by seawater, leading to their classification as unsuitable for consumption by the Kenyan population.
Reports also indicate that the importer had borrowed money from friends to the tune of Ksh30 million to prevent the consignment from being auctioned by the taxman.
According to reports, the importer had taken a loan of Ksh30 million from friends to avoid the taxman auctioning the consignment.
Fresh Details Emerge in Kshs214M Contaminated Sugar Saga