The taxman has seized Kes5.77 billion worth of illicit goods from the Kenyan market including substandard alcohol and water products. According to an update from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), stringent measures to eliminate illegal business activities saw officers engage with over 15,800 non-compliant taxpayers in the country.

This crackdown, which has been in place since July 2021 is part of KRA's strategies to weed out tax cheats while enforcing integrity in the market.

Between July 2021 and July 2024, KRA said it conducted 28,851 patrols along Kenyan borders. The authority registered 1,215 interventions, seizing over 100,000 products with counterfeit or invalid stamps, as well as smuggled cigarettes and ethanol.

Illicit trade poses a considerable risk to revenue collection and national security, challenging both the economy and public health, KRA stated.

"Contrary to common perceptions, KRA's mandate extends well beyond revenue mobilization and collection. It encompasses critical functions such as border control and security, essential for safeguarding Kenya’s economic and public well-being."

The taxman said the authority's approach involves specialized departments that work to enhance market surveillance and counter illicit trade. This ensures compliance with the law and helps in protecting the country from organized crime, smuggling, commercial fraud, and potential threats.

To firm up Kenya's often porous borders, KRA said it has implemented a series of strategic initiatives, including a dedicated security unit to monitor cargo and human movement. These measures are fashioned to prevent tax evasion and address security threats, too.

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Illegal activities at border points

Additionally, KRA noted that its officers are now participating in local security committees, sharing intelligence to combat illegal activities at border points.

Additionally, integrating advanced technology such as cargo scanners, K9 units, and marine boats has bolstered the authority’s capacity to intercept and address illicit trade, including in Kenyan waters.

Between July 2021 and June 2024, KRA established additional Rapid Response Units (RRUs) in Marsabit, Garissa, Kitale, Isiolo, and Emali to enhance intervention capabilities.

Inland Border Control Checkpoints (IBCCs) were also set up at strategic locations including Archers Post, Madogo, Kisian, and Adugosi, enhancing border security.

Additionally, K9 units were deployed at critical points such as Isiolo and Moi International Airports, as well as Taveta, Loitoktok, and Busia One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) to bolster detection efforts. Moreover, operational Marine Units were introduced at Lamu Port and Muhuru Bay to oversee maritime activities.

These strategies have played a crucial role in the successful interception of illegal goods and generally combating illicit trade and smuggling.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to combat illicit trade and uphold the principles of fairness and legality in trade. Our extensive operations reflect KRA’s dedication to securing Kenya’s borders and ensuring that trade is conducted within the confines of the law.” Said a KRA official.

KRA continues to work closely with a multi-agency task force to address these challenges and create a level playing ground for traders.

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