KRA intercepts 40 Iphones 18 pro and pro max worth sh8.2 million at JKIA

By Zawadi Morris

Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Customs officers have intercepted 40 smartphones valued at approximately Sh8.2 million at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after a passenger arriving from Dubai was found carrying the undeclared devices.
The phones, which included iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models, were intercepted at Terminal 1A International Arrivals during routine baggage screening.
According to KRA, the devices were concealed among assorted items and distributed across three small suitcases and a backpack. Customs officers detected the phones using baggage scanners before conducting a physical inspection of the passenger’s luggage.
“The devices had not been declared to Customs and were detected during routine baggage screening,” KRA said.
The authority said the passenger initially told Customs officers that he was travelling through Kenya by road to a neighbouring country.
However, a review of his passport and travel records revealed that he had made several trips between Kenya and Dubai within a short period.
Records showed that the passenger entered Kenya on September 15, 2026, and left two days later. He returned on September 19 and exited on September 20, before entering the country again on September 21 and leaving on September 22.
He subsequently returned to Kenya on September 23.
The repeated movements and short stays prompted Customs officers to conduct further questioning.
KRA said the passenger later admitted that he was acting as a courier for a client based in Dubai and that the smartphones were destined for Kenya.
The 40 phones, estimated to be worth Sh8.2 million, have since been taken to the Customs Warehouse pending clearance and verification.
KRA said the interception demonstrates the importance of technology and intelligence-led screening in strengthening controls at Kenya’s borders.
The authority noted that CT baggage scanners enable Customs officers to identify concealed items, while analysis of travel patterns and targeted interviews help officers identify potentially irregular movements.
KRA has urged travellers entering Kenya to comply with Customs laws and declare goods carried in their luggage.
The authority also cautioned travellers against carrying undeclared goods on behalf of third parties, urging members of the public to ensure that all goods under Customs control are properly declared and cleared according to the law.