The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has seized 40 smartphones valued at approximately Sh8.2 million at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), after Customs officers discovered the devices hidden in the luggage of a passenger arriving from Dubai.
The devices — a mix of iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models — were uncovered during routine screening at Terminal 1A International Arrivals. They were found distributed across three small suitcases and a backpack, and had not been declared to Customs.
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According to KRA, the passenger initially claimed he was merely transiting through Kenya en route to a neighboring country by road. However, a review of his passport and travel records revealed multiple short trips between Kenya and Dubai throughout September. He had entered Kenya on September 15 and departed two days later, returned on September 19 before leaving the following day, then re-entered on September 21, departed on September 22, and came back again on September 23.
KRA explained that following a baggage scan, Customs officers carried out further checks and recovered the concealed smartphones. During questioning, the passenger reiterated that he was simply transiting through Kenya by road.
However, further investigation revealed that the passenger was allegedly acting as a courier for a Dubai-based client, with the smartphones intended for the Kenyan market. The devices have since been placed at the Customs Warehouse pending clearance and verification.
The seizure comes amid growing reliance by Customs authorities on baggage scanners, travel data, and risk-based screening methods to detect undeclared goods entering the country. KRA reminded travellers of their obligation to declare goods subject to Customs control, warning against transporting items on behalf of third parties without first confirming compliance requirements.
