More tobacco, cash recovered in Githunguri counterfeit cigarette raid

Detectives in Githunguri, Kiambu County have recovered additional illicit materials in their ongoing investigation into the illegal production, packaging, and sale of counterfeit cigarettes. The latest haul includes two sacks of loose dried tobacco and cash in notes and coins, seized from the same premises where detectives had previously found counterfeit goods and unlicensed excise stamps.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has stated that the recovered cash is likely to be the earnings from cigarette sales, as they broaden their probe into the suspected illicit tobacco trade. This discovery follows the earlier seizures of counterfeit products and counterfeit excise stamps, which led detectives to suspect that the location was being used for illegal tobacco packaging and branding.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the premises were used for more than just sales and distribution, with investigators now exploring illegal tobacco production and trademark misuse. The recovery of loose tobacco has added another layer to the investigation, as detectives attempt to determine if the site was utilized for preparing tobacco products for sale.

The seizure of assorted cigarettes and counterfeit stamps had already raised concerns over potential tax evasion, but the latest finds have deepened the inquiry. The scene has been processed by Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) experts and KRA officers to gather evidence that could reveal the inner workings of the suspected operation.

The DCI has not disclosed the total value of the seized items, but detectives have launched a manhunt for a suspect linked to the premises who remains at large. The agency has called on the public to provide any information that could help identify the suspect and uncover other individuals involved in the distribution of uncustomed and counterfeit tobacco products.