The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has seized illicit cigarettes worth an estimated Sh12 million in a multi-agency operation in Mutuma area, Gatundu North, Kiambu County. The operation, conducted on November 3, 2026, was based on intelligence linking a suspected distributor and retailer to the sale of illicit cigarettes in the area. The KRA enforcement officers identified premises where several cartons of Super Match cigarettes were stored.
The raid was carried out alongside officers from KRA’s Investigation and Enforcement Department, the Micro and Small Taxpayers Enforcement Department in Thika, and the Gatundu North Sub-County Police Commander. The team recovered 204 boxes of Super Match cigarettes, including 76 boxes containing 10,000 sticks each and 128 boxes containing 5,000 sticks each. The seizure also included other cigarette brands.
In addition to Super Match cigarettes, officers seized two boxes of ORIS Slim Double Apple cigarettes, each containing 10,000 sticks, an additional 5,800 sticks of the same brand, and 600 sticks of ORIS Slim Strawberry cigarettes. The recovered cigarettes have an estimated value of Sh12 million, highlighting the significant financial impact of this illicit trade.
The Crime Scene Investigation team from Thika documented the scene, while KRA officers issued a Notice of Offence. The seized cigarettes were taken to the KRA warehouse in Thika for safekeeping and further action. This operation demonstrates the collaborative efforts of various agencies in combating illicit trade.
The KRA has been actively engaged in operations to curb illicit trade, protect government revenue, and safeguard consumers from illegal products. This seizure is part of a series of operations conducted by the authority to prevent tax losses and intercept contraband goods.
In recent months, the KRA has made several significant seizures, including electronics worth Sh13 million in Kileleshwa, Sh281 million contraband cigarettes at Mombasa Port, and illicit ethanol worth Sh16.3 million near the SGR corridor. These operations underscore the authority's commitment to enforcing tax laws and regulations.
The KRA said it would continue working with other agencies to curb illicit trade, protect government revenue, and safeguard consumers from illegal products. The authority's efforts aim to prevent tax evasion, protect public health, and promote a fair and competitive business environment.
Key points
- The Kenya Revenue Authority seized illicit cigarettes worth Sh12 million in a multi-agency operation in Gatundu North, Kiambu County.
- The operation recovered 204 boxes of Super Match cigarettes and other brands, including ORIS Slim Double Apple and ORIS Slim Strawberry cigarettes.
- The KRA continues to work with other agencies to curb illicit trade, protect government revenue, and safeguard consumers from illegal products.
