NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 24 – Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) enforcement teams have intercepted a consignment of contraband cigarettes in Mombasa valued at an estimated Sh72.2 million, following coordinated surveillance and tracking by the Joint Port Control Unit (JPCU) with support from international partners, including Interpol.
The consignment originated from Cambodia and transited through several countries before arriving in Kenya, with South Sudan declared as the final destination.
Upon inspection, officers discovered 1,083 cartons of illicit Supermatch, Dunhill and Marlboro cigarettes. Supermatch is a brand domiciled and manufactured in Uganda and Kenya, raising concerns over counterfeit and illicit trade channels.
KRA said the interception underscores its commitment to combating illicit trade and protecting public health. Illicit cigarettes not only evade taxes and duties but may also contain harmful substances that pose health risks to consumers.
The operation aligns with the World Customs Organization’s 2026 theme, “Customs: Protecting Societies through Vigilance and Commitment.”
KRA has urged the public and stakeholders to report suspicious trade activities through its hotlines, the iWhistle platform, or at the nearest KRA offices.
