Police Seize Contraband Cigarettes in Kirinyaga, One Suspect Arrested
Police in Kirinyaga have seized a large consignment of contraband cigarettes and arrested one suspect in a targeted operation against illicit goods. The multi-agency team, acting on a tip-off, intercepted a vehicle ferrying the uncustomed cigarettes, which lacked the requisite Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) excise stamps. The suspect, believed to be a distributor, was taken into custody as investigations continue.
The seizure is part of a broader crackdown on the smuggling and sale of counterfeit and non-tax-compliant products, which deprive the government of vital revenue and pose health risks to consumers. The police indicated that the operation also aims to dismantle the supply chains that bring such goods into the local market. The estimated value of the seized cigarettes was not immediately disclosed.
The County Police Commander commended the public for their vigilance and urged residents to continue providing information on individuals involved in the trade of illicit goods. The suspect is expected to be charged with being in possession of uncustomed goods, in violation of the East African Community Customs Management Act.