Former Petroleum PS, EPRA & KPC Bosses Released as Lawyers Defend Actions

UPDATE: Former Petroleum PS Mohamed Liban, ex-KPC MD Joe Sang, and former EPRA CEO Daniel Kiptoo have been released on bail pending investigations, with their lawyers saying they acted on official recommendations in the Ksh 4.8 billion fuel scandal.

Three top energy officials have resigned following arrests by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over alleged irregularities in Kenya’s petroleum supply chain.

According to a press release issued on Saturday, April 4, 2026, by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, President William Ruto received the resignation of Mohamed Liban, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Petroleum.

In addition, the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Board confirmed the resignation of Managing Director Joe Sang, while the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Board accepted the resignation of Director General,. Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria.

Three Top Energy Bosses Resign Following DCI’s Arrest

The three are being investigated over claims that they gave false information about fuel levels in the country. The government says this may have created panic about a possible fuel shortage.

According to the statement, the false information may have led to the purchase of emergency fuel outside the government’s official supply system, the Government-to-Government (G2G) fuel supply framework. The fuel was reportedly bought at a higher price and was of poor quality.

Also Read: Shock as DCI Arrests EPRA Boss, KPC MD and Energy PS

President Ruto termed the actions a serious breach of public trust, noting that such conduct could amount to economic crimes under the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act and the Penal Code.

The G2G fuel supply arrangement, introduced in 2023, was designed to stabilise fuel availability, cushion the market from global volatility, and address foreign exchange challenges.

The government maintains that the framework has ensured a steady fuel supply despite geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East.

Ruto Vows to Take Decisive Action Against Economic Saboteurs

Following the arrests effected on Thursday, April 2, 2026, authorities have escalated the matter to relevant investigative agencies for a comprehensive probe.

Additional administrative action has also been initiated against other officials, including a deputy director in the petroleum department and a supply and logistics manager at KPC.

Also Read: EPRA Cracks Down on Fuel Stations Selling Adulterated Petrol and Diesel to Kenyans

At the same time, the government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding national interests, warning that any acts of economic sabotage will be met with firm and decisive action as investigations continue.

“The government remains steadfast in safeguarding the public good and protecting national interests. Any act of economic sabotage will be fully investigated and met with firm and decisive action against any individual or entity found culpable,” said Hussein.

The statement by the Statehouse Spokesperson comes a day after the three top energy sector officials were arrested on April 2, 2026, by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over alleged irregularities in the fuel supply chain.

Those arrested include Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, Kenya Pipeline Company Managing Director Joe Sang, Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority Director General Daniel Kiptoo, and senior petroleum official Joseph Wafula.

They are being investigated over claims of importing substandard fuel, bypassing the Government-to-Government (G2G) supply framework, and creating an artificial fuel shortage, in a suspected scheme that may have cost taxpayers billions and put public safety at risk.

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President Ruto during a church service. PHOTO/Ruto/FB