This archive report was first published on 28 December 2019.
On December 28, 2019, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) made a significant seizure in their ongoing efforts to combat illicit activities. A water tanker intercepted at Sultan Hamud, Makueni County, was found to be hiding 7,500 litres of ethanol.
The estimated value of the seized ethanol is over 2 million shillings. Upon examination, it was discovered that the tanker had a concealed compartment containing the ethanol, while an outer compartment held 2,500 litres of water.
According to KRA, samples of the ethanol were taken for testing at the KRA and Government chemist laboratory, and the test results confirmed the consignment to be ethanol.
Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the beneficial owners and smugglers involved in the illicit activity. The truck driver and owner have been arrested and are set to be arraigned in court.
It's worth noting that KRA introduced procedures to govern access, purchase, and importation of ethanol in 2015, as part of the government's initiative to combat illicit production and consumption of spirit-based beverages.
