A fresh layer of uncertainty has emerged in the ongoing Sh12 billion fuel scandal after the government ordered the removal of a controversial petrol consignment from Kenya, even as a criminal investigation into alleged economic sabotage gathers pace.
Authorities confirmed on Tuesday that the disputed cargo, already condemned over quality concerns, would be shipped out of the country.
The importer, One Petroleum Limited, conceded to the directive, stating it had taken steps to ensure the fuel does not enter the Kenyan market.
However, critical questions remain unanswered, particularly regarding the whereabouts of the cargo for nearly 10 days and the contractual obligations governing the transaction.
The lack of clarity has intensified scrutiny over the handling of the consignment and raised concerns about regulatory oversight within the energy sector.
The unfolding scandal dates back to March 25, when Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban instructed One Petroleum Limited and Oryx Energies to deliver emergency fuel shipments of 60,000 metric tonnes each.
A day later, Liban sought a temporary waiver from the Kenya Bureau of Standards on key quality requirements, including certification of conformity.
The fuel shipment docked at the Port of Mombasa on March 27, before a conditional waiver was granted on March 28 by Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui in consultation with Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi. The vessel later departed on March 30 under unclear circumstances.
Investigations escalated on April 2, when senior energy sector officials were arrested in coordinated raids conducted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
Days later, Energy CS Wandayi warned that cartels exploiting the Middle East fuel crisis would face firm action.
On April 7, Wandayi formally directed the removal of the cargo, marking a turning point in the government’s response.
Despite this move, analysts say the case exposes systemic weaknesses in fuel importation controls and emergency procurement processes.
As investigations continue, attention now shifts to accountability, with the public demanding answers on how the controversial shipment was handled and whether due process was followed at every stage.