Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Customs officers at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) have intercepted 40 smartphones valued at approximately Ksh 8.2 million following the screening of a male passenger who arrived in Kenya from Dubai.

The interception was made at Terminal 1A International Arrivals after Customs officers subjected the passenger’s luggage to screening using baggage scanners.

The smartphones, comprising iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models, were concealed among assorted items and distributed across three small suitcases and a backpack.

The devices had not been declared to Customs and were detected during routine baggage screening.

Following the scan, Customs officers conducted further checks and recovered the smartphones concealed within the passenger’s luggage.

During interrogation, the passenger stated that he was transiting through Kenya to a neighbouring country by road.

However, a review of his passport and travel history established that he had made several trips between Kenya and Dubai within a short period.

In September 2026, the passenger entered Kenya on 15th September and exited on 17th September; entered again on 19th September and exited on 20 September; and subsequently entered on 21 September and exited on 22nd September.

He also entered Kenya again on 23rd September 2026. The frequent entries and exits, coupled with the short duration of the visits, prompted Customs officers to undertake further questioning.

It was later established that the passenger was acting as a courier for a client based in Dubai and indicated that the smartphones were destined for Kenya.

The intercepted smartphones, whose approximate value is Ksh 8.2 million, have been deposited at the Customs Warehouse pending the applicable clearance and verification processes.

KRA says the interception highlights the critical role of technology and officer vigilance in strengthening border controls and detecting attempts to move undeclared goods through Kenya’s points of entry.

“The deployment of CT baggage scanners enables Customs officers to identify concealed items within luggage, while risk-based screening, analysis of travel patterns and targeted interviews provide additional layers of control,” said KRA.

KRA said it continues to strengthen its border enforcement capabilities through the deployment of modern inspection technologies, intelligence-led interventions and enhanced officer capacity.

The measures are aimed at facilitating legitimate travel and trade while ensuring compliance with Customs requirements and protecting government revenue.

“Travellers entering Kenya are required to comply with Customs laws and procedures and to make the necessary declarations in respect of goods carried in their luggage,” it added.

KRA further cautions travellers against carrying undeclared goods on behalf of third parties and urges members of the public to ensure that all goods subject to Customs control are properly declared and cleared in accordance with the law.

The Authority says it will continue to leverage technology, data and intelligence-led approaches to detect and deter attempts to circumvent Customs controls while facilitating legitimate movement of people and goods through the country’s borders.