Detectives in Bungoma have uncovered a suspected sugar repackaging operation after raiding a premises in Bukembe Shopping Centre and recovering more than 200 bags of sugar alongside thousands of empty branded sacks.
The operation was carried out by officers from the Operations Support Unit (OSU) and DCI Bungoma South following intelligence on suspected uncustomed goods at the shopping centre in Bungoma South Sub-County.
During the raid on a premises linked to a suspect identified as Paul Mwangi, detectives recovered 76 bags of 50kg West Valley Sugar and nine more bags of sugar that had already been packed in Chinese-branded sacks.
The officers also found 10 empty 50kg bags carrying the Mayuge Sugar brand, a Ugandan brand, raising questions over the use of different packaging at the premises.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations said the findings pointed to a possible operation where sugar was being moved into different bags and sold under various brand identities.
Detectives also searched a white Nissan Vanette, registration number KDG 347E, associated with Mwangi and found another 26 bags of West Valley Sugar inside the vehicle.
The sugar is believed to have been prepared for transportation and distribution.
The investigation was later extended to a godown owned by the suspect, located south of Bukembe Shopping Centre. Detectives recovered 98 additional 50kg bags of West Valley Sugar from the store.
They also found 1,700 empty 50kg bags bearing the West Valley Sugar brand, pointing to the possibility of a wider repackaging operation.
Crime Scene Investigation officers processed and documented the premises as detectives secured all the recovered items for further examination.
Mwangi remains in custody as investigators work to determine the full extent of the suspected operation and establish the networks involved in the supply and distribution of the sugar.
The DCI said it remained committed to protecting consumers, safeguarding legitimate businesses and dismantling criminal networks involved in uncustomed and illicitly repackaged goods.
The agency urged members of the public to report suspected criminal activity anonymously through its toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.
The Bungoma operation comes amid continued efforts by authorities to stop the circulation of uncustomed goods and protect consumers from products that may have been repackaged and sold under different identities.
Mwangi has not been convicted of any offence, and the allegations against him remain under investigation and subject to due process.