KRA nabs passenger at JKIA with 40 iPhones worth Ksh.8.2 million

The phones were seized after customs officers flagged a passenger arriving from Dubai during routine checks at the airport.

Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) customs officers have intercepted 40 undeclared iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max smartphones valued at approximately Ksh.8.2 million at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

The phones were seized after customs officers flagged a passenger arriving from Dubai during routine checks at the airport.

According to KRA, the passenger had entered Kenya four times within nine days, raising suspicion and prompting further scrutiny of his luggage.

During questioning, the passenger admitted that he was transporting the phones on behalf of a client in Dubai.

"KRA Customs officers at JKIA intercepted 40 undeclared iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max phones worth Ksh.8.2 million at JKIA. A passenger from Dubai, who had entered Kenya 4 times in 9 days, admitted he was a courier for a Dubai client," said KRA in a statement.

The tax authority warned travellers against acting as couriers for other people without establishing the nature, ownership and customs status of the goods they are carrying.

"KRA warns travellers against carrying undeclared goods for third parties," the athority noted.

The interception is part of KRA's ongoing efforts to curb the smuggling and illegal importation of high-value goods through the country's entry points.