ACA, Police and DCI Intercept 3,600 Suspected Counterfeit Dettol Soap Bars in Eastern Region

The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), working jointly with the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), has intercepted a consignment of 3,600 suspected counterfeit Dettol soap bars in Eastern Region, in an operation aimed at protecting consumers from unsafe personal care products.

The seizure followed a complaint received by the ACA Eastern Region Office from Cerberus Investigation and Security Ltd regarding the suspected movement of counterfeit Dettol soap. Acting on the intelligence, the agencies mounted a coordinated operation along the Matuu–Kanyonyo route, where the suspected goods were intercepted before they could reach the market.

During the operation, officers seized 25 cartons of suspected counterfeit Dettol soap. A preliminary inspection indicated that the products were suspected to be counterfeit, prompting their immediate confiscation for further investigation.

The vehicle transporting the consignment was escorted to Kanyonyo Police Station, and the goods were secured as exhibits pending completion of investigations and other enforcement procedures.

Speaking on the seizure, ACA Eastern Region Regional Head Martin Luther said the operation reflects the Authority’s continued resolve to keep harmful counterfeit products out of the market.

“Personal care products come into direct contact with the body, which makes counterfeit versions especially dangerous. When such goods enter the market, consumers are exposed to substances that may be unsafe, unregulated and harmful to their health. Our focus is to stop these products before they reach shop shelves and to protect the public from avoidable harm,” said Martin Luther.

The seizure also points to the continued use of the Matuu–Kanyonyo corridor as a transit route for counterfeit goods destined for Nairobi and other major markets. It further highlights the importance of timely intelligence sharing and close collaboration among enforcement agencies in disrupting the movement of counterfeit products.

ACA has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers, safeguarding legitimate trade, and strengthening partnerships with other enforcement agencies in the fight against counterfeiting.

Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspected counterfeit goods to the nearest ACA office or law enforcement agency.