In a major operation aimed at combating smuggling and safeguarding the local sugar industry, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has seized 520 bags of contraband sugar, each weighing 50 kilograms, at the Taveta One Stop Border Post (OSBP).
The operation was undertaken following intelligence reports about two locally registered trucks; KDT 085M and KCS 144B suspected of ferrying contraband sugar. The trucks were intercepted at Salaita and Taveta Bypass along the Taveta-Voi Road.
“Upon inspection and physical verification by the multi-agency team, each truck was found loaded with uncustomed 260 bags of sugar,” read the statement from Commissioner, Customs & Border Control Department.
The packaging for the sugar lacked critical information; date of production and packaging, expiry date and batch numbers. The drivers of the two trucks did not produce any documents to facilitate clearance of the sugar. The seized sugar is detained at the Customs Warehouse pending further investigation.
The seizure at Taveta OSBP brings to 664 the total number of contraband sugar bags intercepted by KRA in the past two weeks at both the Taveta and Lunga Lunga OSBPs. In an earlier operation at Lunga Lunga, a truck carrying 144 bags of brown sugar concealed beneath oranges was intercepted and detained.
“KRA remains resolute in its mandate to protect the country from illicit trade and ensure that unscrupulous traders do not jeopardize public safety or the local economy,” the revenue body assured the public.
The Authority has urged all importers to adhere to customs laws and regulations, reiterating its commitment to working with partner agencies to secure Kenya’s borders and uphold fair trade practices.
