The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has dealt a major blow to illicit trade networks after intercepting contraband cigarettes worth KSh 281.1 million at the Port of Mombasa, reaffirming its hardline stance on border security and revenue protection.
In the high-profile seizure, KRA officers impounded over 9.3 million sticks of cigarettes concealed in a 40-foot container, thwarting an elaborate attempt to illegally funnel the goods through Kenya’s busiest port.
The interception followed actionable intelligence, prompting KRA to swiftly convene a multi-agency verification team to scrutinize the suspicious consignment. Given the sensitive nature of the cargo, authorities ordered a 100 per cent physical examination to ensure full compliance with tax, standards and enforcement laws.
The operation brought together officers from KRA, the Port Police, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), Port Health Services, and the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA)—highlighting the government’s coordinated approach to combating smuggling and counterfeit trade.
The joint inspection uncovered 937 cartons containing 9,370,000 sticks of cigarettes. Although the cartons were labelled “Made in Sudan”, investigations revealed glaring inconsistencies: the country of consignment was Cambodia, the cargo was routed through Singapore, shipped into Kenya, and was allegedly destined for South Sudan—a complex trail often associated with illicit trade.
Authorities established that the consignment had evaded payment of taxes amounting to KSh 83.39 million, broken down into KSh 38.42 million in Excise Duty and KSh 44.98 million in Value Added Tax (VAT).
KRA said the interception sends a strong message to smugglers and tax evaders, underscoring the Authority’s unwavering commitment to robust border controls, protection of consumers, and safeguarding of legitimate businesses from unfair competition.
“This successful operation demonstrates our vigilance and resolve to curb illicit trade, protect national revenue, and uphold fair market practices,” KRA said in a statement.
As Kenya intensifies its crackdown on smuggling and counterfeit goods, the Mombasa Port seizure stands as yet another reminder that illicit traders are firmly in the crosshairs of enforcement agencies.
— Commissioner, Customs and Border Control
