KRA unearths underground chamber inside bathroom hiding illicit goods

In a statement on Wednesday, the KRA enforcement team, alongside police officers attached to Baringo Central Police Station, raided a concealment facility suspected of hiding illicit alcohol, ethanol and tobacco. 

The officers gained access to the facility that had more than six gates, apparently designed to restrict entry. 

Upon search, the officers uncovered an underground room constructed beneath the bathroom floor, which had been used to conceal the illicit products. 

"The hidden chamber demonstrates the increasingly sophisticated measures employed by illicit traders to evade detection and conceal prohibited goods," the statement read in part. 

Further, the detectives seized nine jerricans containing 30 litres each of suspected ethanol, 40 sachets containing 200 ml each of suspected ethanol and six kilograms of tobacco. 

According to KRA, the seized goods amounted to Ksh.170,212 in taxes at risk of being lost. 

The officers processed the seized goods and secured the facility for further probe. 

"KRA will continue to undertake intelligence-led operations, in collaboration with other government agencies, to disrupt illicit trade, protect revenue and public health, and hold those involved in illegal activities accountable," the statement read in part.