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Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo tackled the pressing issue of illicit trade in the petroleum sector, emphasizing its significant impact on national security and the government’s economic transformation agenda.
Dr. Omollo stressed that combating illicit trade in petroleum products is crucial for fostering a safer and more prosperous future for Kenya.
“It encapsulates the essence of our vision as government of being able to provide a firm footing for legitimate trade and movement of petroleum and its products, not restrain it,” remarked Dr. Omollo, highlighting the government’s commitment to facilitating lawful trade practices within the sector.
Addressing the audience, Dr. Omollo underscored the interconnectedness between reliable access to quality petroleum products and national security. He elucidated how such products are indispensable for fueling security operations, powering essential services like police stations and communication systems, particularly in remote areas lacking connection to the national grid.
The Interior PS noted with concern the proliferation of unauthorized refilling sites for petroleum products, notably Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG), citing the tragic fire incident in the Mradi Area of Embakasi that resulted in loss of lives and injuries. He emphasized that the inability to trace the movement of petroleum products poses serious safety risks to consumers and the public at large.
Dr. Omollo further highlighted emerging threats from sector cartels, including illegal facilities, dumping of export petroleum products, adulteration, and siphoning along major highways and transport corridors. He acknowledged the presence of rogue elements within the petroleum industry and enforcement agencies, emphasizing the need for enhanced intelligence-led enforcement, stringent prosecution measures, and capacity building across law enforcement bodies.
As Kenya’s petroleum sector continues to expand, Dr. Omollo stressed the imperative of combating illicit trade to safeguard national security, protect consumers, and foster a conducive environment for legitimate economic growth. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of the petroleum industry for the benefit of all Kenyans.
