The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intercepted 52 refurbished mobile phones and three drones at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in an alleged attempt to evade customs duty.
In a statement issued on Saturday, October 17, KRA said a female traveller had allegedly enlisted the help of an airport cleaner to sneak the goods past customs officials screening passengers’ luggage.
According to the Authority, customs officers spotted the cleaner carrying two black backpacks as she exited the airport terminal. When the officers approached her, she reportedly attempted to flee but was apprehended for questioning.
The officers subsequently subjected the bags to screening using a computed tomography (CT) baggage scanner, which detected several mobile phones and drones.
During questioning, the female passenger admitted to handing the two backpacks to the cleaner while she was using the airport restrooms.
A search of the luggage led to the recovery of two DJI Mini 3 Pro drones, complete with two controllers and two batteries, as well as a DJI Air 25 drone accompanied by its controller, battery and accessories.
The seized items also included mobile phone chargers, travel adapters, USB cables, screen protectors and other personal belongings.
KRA said the intercepted goods had been secured and transferred to the Customs warehouse pending further action.
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The Authority also cautioned travellers and importers against bringing drones into Kenya without the necessary approvals, noting that their importation is restricted and requires authorisation from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
“Travellers and importers are therefore required to establish and comply with the applicable regulatory requirements before bringing drones into the country,” KRA stated.
The revenue authority reiterated its commitment to protecting government revenue, securing the country’s borders and facilitating the lawful movement of passengers through the use of technology, intelligence and enforcement operations.
The latest interception comes weeks after KRA seized electronic goods valued at approximately KSh13 million during an intelligence-led operation at a residential apartment in Kileleshwa, Nairobi.
The earlier operation resulted in the recovery of 529 electronic items, including laptops, iPads and various accessories, according to the Authority.
