Four people arrested in Eldoret

Police officers in Eldoret town have arrested four people suspected to be part of a syndicate that has been deceiving farmers that they are buying maize on behalf of the United Nations.

Among the arrested is Sammy Nginya believed to be the leader of the syndicate who has claimed to be a former GSU officer.

He had what is believed to be a fake UN work permit.

According to Eldoret West OCPD Zachary Bitok, the four have so far received over 700 bags of maize from farmers in Ziwa with a promise that they will be paid in a weeks’ time.

They offer a Sh3,000 per bag price, which is far higher than what the government has said it will buy from farmers this season.

Speaking to the press at the Central Police station in Eldoret, Bitok said they are investigating the syndicate with more suspects’ believed to be spread as far as Nairobi.

“A farmer who had been contacted was collecting the maize on their behalf. Some gave 200, others 300 but total bags already given to the group is 700 bags. That farmer is the one who gave us information and he’s helping in our investigations,” said Bitok.

He said majority of farmers can easily fall prey of the syndicate given the better price they are offering compared to the current market price.

The OCPD however advised farmers to be cautious and ensure they have full details of anyone promising to buy maize from them.

“Farmers are desperate and anything that is likely to give them relieve in paying bills they will willingly give in. We advise that they ensure whoever is buying the produce from them is authentic,” he noted