Nairobi, Aug. 13 -- British American Tobacco Kenya has asked the High Court to strike out a Sh4.5 billion claim over its VELO nicotine pouches, saying the petitioner bypassed remedies provided under tobacco control law.

The company wants the court to dismiss both the petition and an application that is seeking interim orders before it answers the allegations on their merits.

The legal dispute centres on VELO, the smokeless, tobacco-free pouches containing nicotine, flavourings and plant fibres that users place between the lip and gum.

Vivian Anemba, 23, filed the petition last month against BAT Kenya, the Tobacco Control Board, the Cabinet Secretary for Health, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Attorney-General.

The petitio...