The Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs) has issued a caution to buyers of vehicles at police auctions, urging them to adhere to stringent regulations governing the importation and registration of motor vehicles. Specifically, the agency highlighted that vehicles purchased at police auctions must comply with the Kenya Standard Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles (KS 1515:2000), which ensures the roadworthiness of the vehicles.
According to Kebs, one of the key regulations prohibits the registration of vehicles that are more than eight years old from the date of first registration. This poses a challenge for buyers looking to purchase older vehicles through police auctions. However, Kebs clarified that under certain conditions, it may recommend a waiver of the age limit requirement to the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry. This waiver can be granted if the vehicle meets the Waiver Evaluation Technical Criteria (WETC), a publicly available document that outlines the necessary requirements.
For a waiver to be considered, the vehicle must be in Kenya, in the custody of the Kenyan police, and not claimed by its owner. Buyers must also submit several documents, including a waiver application letter, a multi-agency pre-auction report, and a gazette notice listing the vehicle for auction. Furthermore, a court order for the auction, a license of the auctioneer, a tape lift from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and Interpol clearance are required.
Kebs emphasized that any vehicles failing to meet the required safety and environmental standards may be recommended for destruction or re-exportation. Therefore, it is crucial for buyers to verify the details of any vehicle before finalizing their purchase.
The agency also reiterated its commitment to thorough inspections in collaboration with other regulatory bodies, such as the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the Ministry of Transport, to ensure that vehicles comply with safety and performance standards.
In conclusion, buyers are urged to consult with Kebs and other relevant authorities before purchasing police-auctioned vehicles to avoid potential losses and ensure compliance with the necessary regulations.
