Police in Matungu have seized approximately 30 tonnes of suspected repackaged fertiliser from a residential property in Eshirumbwe Village, Koyonzo Division, in an operation that has raised questions about the handling of subsidised agricultural inputs.

The operation, led by Matungu Deputy County Commissioner Christine Iredi, followed a tip-off from members of the public about suspected fertiliser repackaging activities at the premises.

The home, allegedly owned by Mr Francis Ochieng, is suspected to have been converted into a makeshift processing and repackaging station, where fertiliser was allegedly being transferred into different branded bags for resale.

Authorities cordoned off the property as officers moved in to secure the scene and prevent further activity.

Four suspects were arrested during the operation, including the drivers of two lorries found at the premises and two individuals allegedly involved in repackaging the fertiliser.

Officers from the Anti-Counterfeit Authority were also involved in the operation, with the seized consignment subsequently transported to the authority’s station for further examination and investigations.

Preliminary allegations indicate that the fertiliser may have been sourced from National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots before being repackaged into bags bearing the Falcon brand for distribution in the Kenyan market.

Investigators are expected to establish the source of the consignment, the circumstances under which it was acquired and the intended distribution network.

The seizure has drawn attention to the need to safeguard government-subsidised fertiliser, which is intended to help farmers access affordable agricultural inputs and improve food production.

For farmers struggling with the cost of farm inputs, subsidised fertiliser remains an important lifeline. Any diversion or misuse of the programme, if established, could undermine its objectives and deny intended beneficiaries access to affordable supplies.

The involvement of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority is expected to help establish the nature of the suspected repackaging and whether any laws governing the handling, branding and distribution of fertiliser were breached.

The suspects have been arrested as investigations continue. The allegations against them, including the reported use of the residential property for repackaging, remain subject to investigation and have not been established in court.