KRA Seizes Sh8.2 Million Smartphones at JKIA
The review showed that the passenger had made several short trips between Kenya and Dubai within a relatively brief period.
Kenya Revenue Authority customs officers intercepts 40 smartphones worth approximately Sh8.2 million at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after detecting the undeclared devices in a passenger's luggage. Photo: KRA.
By Robert Mutasi
Kenya Revenue Authority customs officers have intercepted 40 smartphones worth approximately Sh8.2 million at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after detecting the undeclared devices in a passenger’s luggage.
The interception was made at Terminal 1A International Arrivals following the screening of a male passenger who had arrived in Kenya from Dubai on October 1, 2026.
According to KRA, the passenger was subjected to routine baggage screening using scanners, which enabled customs officers to identify suspicious items concealed among assorted goods.
Further checks led to the recovery of 40 smartphones comprising iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models. The devices had been distributed across three small suitcases and a backpack.
KRA said the smartphones had not been declared to Customs as required under Kenyan customs procedures.
The passenger initially told officers that he was transiting through Kenya and intended to travel by road to a neighbouring country. However, customs officers conducted further questioning after reviewing his passport and travel history.
The review showed that the passenger had made several short trips between Kenya and Dubai within a relatively brief period.
Records showed that he entered Kenya on September 15 and left on September 17. He returned on September 19 and departed the following day before entering again on September 21 and leaving on September 22.
He subsequently entered Kenya again on September 23, prompting officers to examine his movements more closely.
KRA said further interrogation established that the passenger was acting as a courier for a client based in Dubai. He also indicated that the smartphones were destined for the Kenyan market.
The seized devices, estimated to be worth Sh8.2 million, have been placed at the Customs Warehouse pending clearance and verification.
The interception comes as KRA continues to rely on technology, intelligence and risk-based screening to detect undeclared goods entering the country.
The authority said the use of computerised tomography baggage scanners allows customs officers to identify concealed items within luggage. Analysis of passenger travel patterns and targeted interviews are also used to identify potential customs violations.
KRA has urged travellers entering Kenya to comply with customs laws and declare goods carried in their luggage where required.
The authority has particularly cautioned members of the public against carrying undeclared goods on behalf of third parties.
KRA said it would continue using technology, data and intelligence-led interventions to detect attempts to circumvent customs controls while facilitating the legitimate movement of people and goods through Kenya’s borders.
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