KRA Busts Smuggling Ring: Over 9 Million Contraband Cigarettes Worth Ksh.281 Million Seized at Mombasa Port

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has seized a massive consignment of contraband cigarettes at the Port of Mombasa. The shipment was worth over Ksh.281 million. Authorities said more than 9.3 million cigarette sticks were hidden in a 40-foot container.

The seizure followed a tip-off from intelligence sources. KRA immediately set up a multi-agency verification team. “A 100% physical inspection was conducted to ensure compliance with tax, standards, and enforcement regulations,” the statement read.

Officers from KRA, Port Police, Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), Anti-Counterfeit Agency (ACA), Port Health Services, and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) worked together. They confirmed the container carried illegal goods.

The inspection found 937 cartons with 9,370,000 cigarette sticks. The cartons were labeled “Made in Sudan,” but the shipment came from Cambodia. It had passed through Singapore and was reportedly destined for South Sudan.

KRA said the taxes on the shipment total Ksh.83.39 million. This includes Ksh.38.42 million in excise duty and Ksh.44.98 million in value-added tax (VAT). By intercepting the cigarettes, KRA protected government revenue and stopped unregulated tobacco from reaching the market.

The seizure is part of KRA’s fight against smuggling. Intelligence-led operations and multi-agency cooperation remain key. Traders and importers are urged to follow tax and regulatory rules to avoid penalties.

The operation highlights Kenya’s commitment to safeguarding public revenue. KRA vowed to continue detecting and stopping illegal shipments across the country.