The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) intercepted a significant consignment of suspected illicit ethanol valued at Ksh16.26 million in a targeted, intelligence-led operation near Nairobi’s Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) corridor.
The seizure represents a major blow to the illegal alcohol trade, which often poses serious health risks to consumers and undermines government revenue.
The operation was conducted by officers from KRA’s Micro and Small Taxpayers Enterprises Directorate following a tip-off about lorries transporting ethanol to a yard near the SGR.
By the time officers arrived, the vehicles had departed, but the ethanol had already been offloaded and stored at the premises.
KRA officers recovered 20 drums of ethanol, each containing 250 litres, totaling 5,000 litres. A Toyota Fielder, registration number KDU 804R, linked to the consignment, was also seized. Investigations revealed the vehicle was reportedly fitted with tracking system jammers, suggesting a deliberate attempt to evade law enforcement and surveillance.
“This incident underscores the evolving tactics used by those engaged in illicit trade,” a KRA spokesperson said. “Our intelligence networks and operational capabilities are continuously being enhanced to counter these threats effectively.”
Preliminary assessments indicate the ethanol could have produced approximately 48,200 bottles, with an estimated market value of Ksh14.46 million.
Combined with the seized vehicle, valued at Ksh1.8 million, the total value of the confiscated goods reached Ksh16.26 million.
KRA further estimates that the government would have lost about Ksh7.42 million in taxes had the consignment entered the market, including Ksh2.6 million in value-added tax and Ksh4.82 million in excise duty.
The seized items remain in KRA custody as investigations continue to identify the perpetrators and dismantle the network behind the operation.
Authorities have urged the public to provide information that could assist in curbing the flow of illegal goods, stressing that such operations are critical for protecting legitimate businesses, safeguarding public health, and recovering vital government revenue.
“The seizure demonstrates our commitment to tackling illicit trade and enforcing the law across the country,” the spokesperson added.
