Fake Printer Toners Seized at Kisumu Polytechnic After Complaints Over Broken Machines and Delayed Exams

A complaint by Kisumu National Polytechnic has led to the seizure of suspected counterfeit printer toners worth Ksh 1.6 million, shining a spotlight on the growing threat counterfeit products pose to public institutions and service delivery.

The suspected counterfeit toners were seized by the Anti-Counterfeit Authority on April, 14,2026, following concerns raised by the institution’s Chief Principal, Ms. Catherine Kelonye, over repeated printer breakdowns, rising maintenance costs, and delays in the printing of critical documents, including examination papers.

According to the institution, the suspected counterfeit products had disrupted normal operations and placed an unnecessary financial burden on the college, affecting both administrative efficiency and academic processes.

Ms. Kelonye decried the losses caused by the suspected counterfeit supplies, noting that the damage to printers had interfered with the timely preparation of essential documents and increased the cost of maintaining equipment at the institution.

Authorities Highlight Costly Impact of Counterfeit Trade

The operation was led by Regional Manager Mr. Tom Muteti, who said the seizure highlights the real and costly consequences of counterfeit trade on institutions that rely heavily on reliable supplies.

“This seizure underscores the serious risk counterfeit products pose to institutions that rely on quality and consistency in their day-to-day operations. In this case, the suspected counterfeit printer toners not only caused financial loss through increased maintenance costs, but also disrupted the printing of critical documents, including examination papers. We are pursuing investigations to trace the source of these products and ensure those responsible are brought to book,” said Mr. Tom Muteti.

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Investigations are currently ongoing to identify and apprehend the supplier behind the suspected counterfeit toners, with enforcement officers pursuing legal action against all those involved in the supply chain.

Public Institutions Urged to Strengthen Procurement Checks

Director of Enforcement Mr. Yusuf Osman said the case should serve as a wake-up call to public institutions across the country to be vigilant in their procurement processes and to report suspicious suppliers before greater damage is done.

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“Counterfeit trade continues to harm institutions, businesses, and consumers alike by driving up costs, damaging equipment, and undermining service delivery. We commend Kisumu National Polytechnic for taking swift action and reporting the matter.”

“We urge other public institutions to follow this example by remaining vigilant, verifying their suppliers, and promptly reporting any suspicious products or suppliers to the Authority,” said Mr. Yusuf Osman.

He added that the Anti-Counterfeit Authority will continue to intensify enforcement efforts to protect institutions and consumers from unscrupulous traders dealing in counterfeit goods.

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