- KRA seized 52 refurbished phones and three drones at JKIA after a passenger allegedly asked an airport cleaner to bypass customs checks
- Officers reportedly stopped the cleaner carrying two backpacks and used a CT scanner to identify the concealed electronics
- KRA reminded travellers that drone imports are restricted and require the relevant authorisation from KCAA
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has confiscated 52 refurbished mobile phones and three drones at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after a passenger allegedly tried to sneak the items past Customs officers using an airport cleaner.
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The seizure occurred during routine checks on arriving passengers when Customs officials spotted an airport employee carrying two black backpacks as she left the terminal.
According to KRA, the cleaner attempted to escape after noticing the officers but was stopped and questioned about the bags.
“During interrogation, the airport employee told the officers that a female passenger had handed her the two bags and requested her to take them through customs. The officers subsequently subjected the backpacks to screening using a CT baggage scanner, which revealed the presence of drones and assorted mobile phones,” KRA said in a statement on Saturday, October 17.
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The officers then traced the passenger, who had arrived on an international flight. She reportedly confirmed handing the bags to the cleaner while she went to the restroom.
A physical search conducted in the presence of both women established that the backpacks contained 52 refurbished mobile phones, three drones, controllers, batteries and other accessories.
Which drones were seized at JKIA?
KRA identified two of the confiscated devices as DJI Mini 3 Pro drones and the third as a DJI Air 2S drone. The equipment included controllers, batteries and other accessories.
The bags also contained phone chargers, travel adapters, USB cables, screen protectors and personal effects.
The seized items were secured and transferred to the Customs warehouse pending further action.
KRA said it was strengthening technology-driven and risk-based screening at entry points to facilitate legitimate travel and trade while detecting attempts to evade Customs controls.
What are Kenya’s rules on importing drones?
The tax authority reminded travellers and importers that bringing drones into Kenya is subject to restrictions and requires the relevant authorisation from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
KRA urged passengers to establish the applicable regulatory requirements and obtain the necessary approvals before travelling with drones into the country.
The authority said its enforcement measures were intended to ensure compliance with Customs procedures while preventing prohibited or unauthorised items from entering Kenya.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
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