Eight suspects have been arrested in connection with the violent looting of the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depot in Maua, Meru County, where over 7,354 bags of fertiliser were stolen on June 25, 2025. The incident, which shocked both residents and authorities, saw large crowds storm the facility, stealing not only fertiliser but also cereals, office supplies, and causing extensive property damage.
Police have confirmed the recovery of part of the stolen fertiliser and impounded several vehicles believed to have been used in ferrying the looted goods. These include motorbikes and Probox cars, commonly used for transport in rural areas. While eight individuals have been apprehended, security agencies indicate that investigations are ongoing, and more arrests are likely.
During the raid, the main office at the depot was set ablaze, and critical infrastructure such as a mobile seed dryer was completely destroyed. The estimated loss from the stolen fertiliser alone is over Sh29 million, but depot officials believe the total damage could be much higher once the full extent of the destruction is assessed.
The government has responded to the incident by mandating the installation of operational CCTV systems in all NCPB depots across the country. The move aims to enhance security, support future investigations, and act as a deterrent to similar events. The importance of such measures has become more apparent in light of the overwhelming nature of the attack. Local police who responded were reportedly outnumbered by the large mob, highlighting gaps in security preparedness.
Community leaders, residents, and farmers have condemned the attack, noting the severe disruption it has caused to agricultural activities in the area. With the depot damaged and fertiliser stocks looted, many farmers are now left with limited options for accessing subsidised farm inputs. They are expected to travel long distances to alternative depots, adding logistical challenges to an already difficult planting season.
One local farmer lamented that the loss is not just monetary but also a setback to food production in the region. “Farmers are struggling to get inputs. This is going to affect yields and, ultimately, food security,” he noted.
Authorities have not ruled out political incitement as a possible trigger for the looting, and efforts are underway to identify any masterminds behind the attack. Investigators are following leads that suggest the chaos may have been orchestrated, with tensions in the area possibly exploited by unknown individuals with ulterior motives.
As investigations and recovery efforts continue, law enforcement has vowed to pursue all those involved and restore order. Police have also warned that future attempts at such lawlessness will be met with firm action, stressing that there will be no tolerance for public disorder.
