The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intercepted massive consignment worth over Sh16 million in a sophisticated tax evasion scheme at the Eldoret International Airport.
The KRA enforcement team intercepted a range of undeclared goods, including 21,600 smartphones valued at Sh6.4 million.
Additional items seized in the operation included shoes, clothes, auto spares, household items, and electronic equipment.
Airport Manager Charles Kionga confirmed the seizure, which was part of a coordinated effort by KRA and other government agencies, aimed at addressing the growing issue of tax evasion in the country.
“The undeclared goods are under custody and investigations are ongoing,” said Mr Kionga, who promised to issue a more comprehensive statement in due course.
According to KRA, the consignment was consigned to Pemba Ltd. and declared by Portyard Limited through a cargo plane that arrived on November 18, 2025. Investigations by KRA suggest that the declaration of goods was either made expressly or under a consolidated category for each item.
“The tax evasion scheme contravenes Section 2030 of the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA), 2004, which states that anyone who makes a false or incorrect entry in customs matters with the intent to fraudulently evade payment commits an offence and is liable to a fine not exceeding $10,000,” stated KRA.
The authority emphasised that the investigation is part of its ongoing efforts to uncover tax evasion schemes and improve tax compliance in Kenya.
For years, Eldoret International Airport has been seen as a hotspot for the entry of uncleared goods, as part of a broader network of tax evasion activities in the region.
