NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 16 – The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intercepted more than 9.3 million sticks of contraband cigarettes valued at Sh281.1 million at the Port of Mombasa.
The seizure thwarted an attempt to illegally import the cigarettes concealed in a 40-foot container.
Acting on intelligence, KRA convened a multi-agency verification team that carried out a 100 per cent physical examination of the cargo to ensure compliance with tax, standards and enforcement regulations.
The operation involved officers from KRA, Port Police, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), Port Health Services and the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
A joint inspection confirmed the consignment comprised 937 cartons containing 9.4 million sticks of cigarettes.
KRA said the cartons were labelled “Made in Sudan” despite the country of consignment being Cambodia. The cargo was routed through Singapore to Kenya and was destined for South Sudan.
Total taxes due on the goods amount to Sh83.4 million, comprising Sh38.4 million in excise duty and Sh45 million in value-added tax (VAT).
“This interception underscores KRA’s unwavering commitment to border control and its mandate to protect society and legitimate traders from illicit trade,” said the KRA Commissioner for Customs and Border Control.
The authority added that it remains vigilant in safeguarding national revenue and ensuring fair market competition.
