The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has flagged a private company impersonating its officials and conducting illegal enforcement operations.
In a statement on Tuesday, July 1, KEBS distanced itself from a company known as Multi-Works and Rights Enforcements Co. Ltd, which has been purporting to act on its behalf while engaging in fraudulent activities.
"It has come to the attention of Kenya Bureau of Standards that certain individuals, working for a private company going by the name Multi-Works and Rights Enforcements Co. Ltd which identifies as a consumer rights/protection organization, are falsely claiming affiliation with KEBS and unlawfully engaging in enforcement activities under the pretext of implementing the Consumer Protection Act.
"KEBS strongly disassociates itself from these activities and condemns them in the strongest terms possible," the statement read.
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KEBS revealed that it had received multiple complaints from the public and business operators reporting coordinated and criminal behavior by the group.
"Numerous complaints from the public and business community across the country reveal an organized and widespread pattern of fraudulent conduct. The most recent and alarming incident was reported on June 16, 2025, in Longisa, Merigi, and Kembu business centers in Bomet County.
"In this case, individuals masquerading as KEBS officers carried out illegal inspections and raids on retail shops and even entertainment clubs, extorting bribes of up to Ksh20,000 per shop. Similar incidents have also been reported in Kakamega, Kisumu, Meru, Machakos, Voi, and Mombasa, indicating that this criminal activity is systematic and well-coordinated," the statement continued.
KEBS clarified that the company in question is not affiliated with the bureau and cited official records to disprove any alleged legitimacy.
"KEBS clarifies that Multi-Works and Rights Enforcements Co. Ltd (Company Registration No. C.115299), reportedly led by one Edward R. Olang, is a private company and is not affiliated with KEBS. KEBS is further aware that this company purported to operate as a Consumer protection organization by dint of Gazette notices No. 7851 of 2023 and 208 of 2024, which have since been cancelled through Kenya Gazette Vol. CXVII-No.31 issued on 14th February, 2025," the statement added.
To help the public distinguish genuine KEBS officers from imposters, the bureau emphasized proper verification procedures.
"When legitimate KEBS personnel conduct official duties such as market surveillance, they strictly adhere to laid down protocols. They must produce their Certificate of Appointment as Inspectors under the Standards Act, Chapter 496 of the Laws of Kenya, and KEBS Staff Identification Card, which can be verified by sending the HR number from the staff Identity Card via SMS to 20023 (you will receive the officer's name, designation, ID number, and employment status).
"Alternatively, verification can be done by calling the KEBS Toll-Free Line 1545 or emailing [email protected]. It is crucial to note that legitimate KEBS officers do not demand bribes, do not impose on-the-spot fines, and do not carry out arrests or detentions," the statement further read.
