The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intensified its war against illicit trade after seizing contraband goods valued at more than Ksh 46 million in two separate multi-agency operations in Kirinyaga and Uasin Gishu counties. The successful operations not only safeguarded legitimate businesses but also averted tax evasion worth over Ksh 19 million.
In the first operation, intelligence-led enforcement officers drawn from KRA, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the National Police Service (NPS), and local administrators intercepted a major consignment of contraband cigarettes in Kienja Village, Kirinyaga County.
The sting led to the recovery of 95 cartons of Supermatch cigarettes (each with 190 packets) and 64 packets of Oris cigarettes, all valued at Ksh 29.25 million. According to KRA, the seizure prevented a total tax loss of Ksh 8.61 million, comprising Ksh 3.93 million in Excise Duty and Ksh 4.68 million in Value Added Tax (VAT).
In a separate raid in Ngeria, Eldoret, a multi-agency team stormed an illegal alcohol production facility following intelligence reports on illicit manufacturing. Goods and materials worth Ksh 17.03 million were confiscated, including 24,000 counterfeit excise stamps, 600 bottles of branded and unbranded liquor, 100 liters of ethanol, 260 sticks of illicit cigarettes, counterfeit labels, empty bottles, and large storage containers.
The Eldoret operation averted a further Ksh 10.79 million in tax losses. Authorities confirmed that one suspect was arrested and remains in police custody pending prosecution. The seized goods are currently secured at the KRA Eldoret warehouse.
KRA has reiterated its commitment to eliminating illicit trade, which it says undermines the economy, distorts fair competition, and poses grave public health risks.
“These joint operations are proof of the government’s determination to protect revenue, secure legitimate businesses, and safeguard Kenyans from harmful products,” KRA said in a statement.
The Authority has pledged to sustain close collaboration with security agencies and local authorities in an all-out effort to dismantle illicit trade networks across the country.
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