KRA intercepts smuggled tobacco products, powdered milk worth Sh46.7mn

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intercepted smuggled cigarettes, shisha tobacco products, and powdered milk valued at Sh46.77 million, with Sh29.177 million in taxes at risk. The consignment, destined for Nairobi, included ORIS cigarettes worth Sh30.6 million, shisha tobacco products and accessories worth Sh8.398 million, and 100 cartons of LATO Whole Milk Powder and 199 cartons of NAN Optipro 1&2, amounting to Sh7.768 million in powdered milk.

The suspect attempted to transport the goods using a Simba Coach passenger bus, which originated from Uganda and crossed porous border routes to a pick-up point in Busia. Upon noticing the enforcement team, the suspect fled, leading to a pursuit that ultimately caught up with the suspect at Kondoo, within the Burnt Forest area. The bus was seized and inspected, revealing hidden compartments used to conceal the smuggled goods.

KRA has been struggling with increased smuggling from neighboring countries like Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia, prompting the implementation of new measures to curb tax evasion, which has cost the government billions in unrealized tax collections. In response, KRA has intensified patrols in border regions and equipped customs officers with body cameras to discourage bribery, collusion, and undervaluation of cargo.

These efforts aim to protect public health, legitimate businesses from unfair competition, safeguard government revenue, and promote compliance with tax and customs laws.