This archive report was first published on 12 November 2021.
Published on November 12, 2021, a report by Taifa Leo highlighted the issue of smuggling at the Kenya-Tanzania border.
Customs officers in the border region have been accused of smuggling goods, including sugar, rice, soap, and maize flour, into the country through the Vanga, Lungalunga, and Shimoni border points in Kwale County.
The smugglers use various means, including boats, motorcycles, and other small vehicles, to transport the goods.
At the Shimoni border, there are over five areas where the smugglers operate, with only one area having a presence of Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) officials.
The areas include Kinuyuni, Mazaro, Bati, Kiwambale, and Mwambale, all located in the coastal area.
It has been observed that the smugglers often bring in the goods at night and by the time KRA officials arrive at 11 am, the goods have been moved elsewhere.
Recently, Coast Regional Coordinator John Elungata ordered the establishment of a crackdown on the smuggling of contraband goods into the country.
“We want to have a more effective approach to ensure that all contraband goods are seized at the border areas to show that we are serious,” Elungata said during a meeting with security officials at Lungalunga.
