The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intercepted a large consignment of contraband cigarettes valued at Ksh281 million at the Port of Mombasa, dealing a major blow to illicit trade networks operating through the country’s main gateway. Boxes of undeclared cigarettes confiscated in a major KRA anti-smuggling operation. In a statement, KRA said the seizure was made following enhanced risk profiling and intelligence-led operations by customs officers stationed at the port. The shipment, concealed in a container declared as carrying other goods, was flagged during routine verification and sub

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intercepted a large consignment of contraband cigarettes valued at Ksh281 million at the Port of Mombasa, dealing a major blow to illicit trade networks operating through the country’s main gateway.

Boxes of undeclared cigarettes confiscated in a major KRA anti-smuggling operation.

In a statement, KRA said the seizure was made following enhanced risk profiling and intelligence-led operations by customs officers stationed at the port. The shipment, concealed in a container declared as carrying other goods, was flagged during routine verification and subjected to further inspection, which uncovered millions of sticks of cigarettes that had not met Kenya’s tax and regulatory requirements. According to the authority, preliminary investigations indicate that the consignment was intended for distribution within the local market, a move that would have resulted in significant revenue losses to the government and unfair competition for legitimate businesses. Illicit tobacco products also pose serious public health risks, as they often evade quality and safety controls.

KRA officers inspect seized contraband cigarettes worth Ksh281 million at the Port of Mombasa.

KRA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding government revenue and protecting consumers by cracking down on tax evasion and smuggling. The authority noted that the interception aligns with its ongoing enforcement strategy, which combines technology, intelligence sharing, and collaboration with other government agencies. Investigations into the ownership and origin of the seized goods are ongoing, with KRA warning that those found culpable will face prosecution in accordance with Kenyan law.

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