The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has warned transporters and the public against using fake forest goods movement permits, cautioning that offenders risk arrest and impounding their materials.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 30, the government agency emphasized that anyone requiring a movement permit for forest products must follow proper procedures to avoid falling victim to fraudulent documents.
"Kenya Forest Service warns the public to beware of fake forest goods movement permits, which could lead to arrest and impounding of the materials," KFS stated.
The service outlined the procedure for obtaining legitimate permits, noting that transporters must visit their respective County Forest Conservator offices in person.
"Anyone who requires a movement permit for forest goods such as timber logs, poles, and charcoal, among others, needs to visit the respective County Forest Conservator office," the statement read.
Read More
KFS emphasized that applicants must present a Certificate of Origin indicating the source of the materials before any permit is issued.
"While here, one needs to present a Certificate of Origin that indicates the source of the materials. KFS Forest Officers will verify the source of the materials before issuing the movement permit," the agency explained.
The warning comes amid reports of fraudulent documents circulating in the market. Authorities have identified two fake letters bearing KFS and Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry letterheads, both marked with prominent "FAKE" stamps.
The first fake document, dated September 18, 2025, purports to be a ‘No Objection for Transportation of Harvested Veneers’ letter addressed to the Domestic Taxes Department at the Kenya Revenue Authority. It falsely claims KFS confirmation for Fortune Bridge Import and Export Services Limited to transport veneers from Eldoret, Kericho, Kisii, and Kisumu.
The fraudulent letter references a supposed Transport/Movement Permit (Ref. No. KFS/ZAF/EC/00973) dated September 9, 2025, which authorities confirm is fabricated.
The second fake document, dated September 3, 2025, claims to be from the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, allegedly addressed to Fortune Bridge Import & Export Services Limited's Managing Director, Mr. Bai Yuehua. It falsely indicates approval for a "License to Transport Harvested Veneers."
Both documents bear forged signatures and official stamps, demonstrating the sophistication of the forgery operation.
KFS has urged vigilance and called on the public to cooperate with authorities in combating the illegal trade in forest products.
"The public is advised to report any case of fake movement permits to the nearest KFS offices for further investigations," the statement concluded.
