Authorities have stopped a shipment of illegal pesticides worth Sh1 million at the Busia One Stop Border Point, highlighting intensified measures to control the movement of unregistered chemicals.
The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) reported that officers discovered the consignment on Wednesday morning while it was being transported from Kampala to Nairobi on a Mash Poa bus.
The products were packed as a parcel, with no registration or certification, raising questions about their safety and effectiveness.
PCPB’s Compliance and Enforcement unit said the seizure underscores the danger unregulated pesticides pose to human health, food security, and the environment. The board cautioned traders, transporters, and the public to avoid dealing with illegal pest control products.
“The importation, transportation or distribution of illegal or unregistered pest control products is an offence under the Pest Control Products Act, Cap 346, and attracts severe penalties,” the Board said.
The agency said it is strengthening checks at all border points and within the country to ensure that only approved pest control products are available in the market.
The Busia case followed another interception at the Lunga Lunga One Stop Border Post on Thursday, where officers confiscated an unauthorised public health pesticide. The board said the recent seizures reflect the effectiveness of stricter border controls and its commitment to protecting public health.
“Traders and transporters are warned against smuggling illegal pesticides; violations will attract seizure and prosecution. Stakeholders must ensure compliance,” the Board added.
