Sh4.8B Fuel Scandal Linked to Sinking of MT Paloma Vessel - April 2026

A Sh4.8 billion fuel scandal has rocked Kenya, linked to the sinking of the crude oil vessel MT Paloma, which resulted in the loss of three top petroleum officials. Top energy officials including Petroleum PS Mohamed Liban, KPC MD Joe Sang, and EPRA DG Daniel Kiptoo have resigned and are in police custody following their arrest in connection with an irregular fuel import scam. Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua is defending the senior energy officials detained over the alleged fuel import scandal, claiming President Ruto ordered their arrests. Two oil firms are also under probe in connection with the fuel scandal. Deputy President Gachagua has also blamed President William Ruto for the fallout surrounding the fuel saga, amid growing public concern over fluctuating fuel prices.