EPRA Cracks Down on Adulterated Fuel as Nationwide Inspections Expose Non-Compliant Stations

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has intensified its crackdown on petrol stations selling adulterated fuel, shutting down some outlets and imposing fines on others in a move aimed at protecting motorists and enforcing national fuel standards.

The action follows a nationwide inspection carried out between January and March 2026, during which the regulator conducted 2,713 fuel quality tests across 758 petroleum sites.

Majority compliant, but violations uncovered
According to EPRA, the vast majority of stations met the required standards, with 753 sites—representing over 99 percent—found to be compliant. However, five stations were flagged for serious violations, including selling fuel adulterated with kerosene, distributing high-sulphur products, and diverting export-bound fuel into the local market.

Fuel adulteration, often involving the mixing of petrol or diesel with kerosene, can damage vehicle engines, reduce performance, and pose safety risks to consumers.

Closures, fines, and legal action
EPRA took enforcement action against the offending outlets, with some stations shut down and others penalised. In certain cases, operators were allowed to resume business after upgrading fuel quality and paying fines running into hundreds of thousands of shillings.

However, other cases remain unresolved, with fuel supplies impounded and matters proceeding through the courts. Authorities have maintained that strict penalties are necessary to deter malpractice in the sector.

Under the Petroleum Act 2019, dealing in adulterated fuel is a serious offence that can attract heavy fines or imprisonment, underscoring the government’s firm stance on fuel quality compliance.

Ongoing monitoring and consumer protection
EPRA has reiterated its commitment to continuous monitoring of petroleum products across the country. The regulator conducts regular inspections of fuel during storage, transportation, and sale to prevent adulteration and illegal diversion of export-designated products.

To strengthen enforcement, members of the public are being urged to report suspicious fuel activity through EPRA’s hotline, SMS service, or USSD code (*363#).

Renewed focus on fuel integrity
While the number of non-compliant stations remains relatively low, the findings highlight persistent risks within the sector. EPRA says it will continue ramping up surveillance and enforcement to ensure that all fuel sold in Kenya meets the required standards.

The crackdown serves as a reminder to both operators and consumers of the importance of maintaining fuel integrity—protecting not only vehicles, but also public safety and confidence in the country’s energy sector.