KRA, DCI detectives nab 7,500 litres of ethanol hidden in water tanker

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) in collaboration with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have seized a consignment of 7,500 litres of ethanol with an approximate tax value of over Ksh.2 million.

According to KRA, the ethanol had been concealed in a 10,000 litres water tanker that was intercepted at Sultan Hamud, Makueni County.

“Upon examination, the tanker was found to be carrying 2,500 of water in an outer compartment while the second concealed compartment was discovered containing ethanol,” said KRA in a press release on Saturday.

“The samplea were withdrawn and taken for testing at the KRA and Government chemist laboratory and the test results confirmed the consignment to be ethanol.”

The truck driver and truck owner have since been arrested and are set to be arraigned.

“Investigations are still ongoing to ensure that the beneficial owners and the smugglers are apprehended and charged,” added KRA.

In 2015, KRA through a public notice introduced procedures to govern access, purchase and importation of ethanol pursuant to the government’s initiative to combat illicit production and consumption of spirit based beverages.

The procedures, which took effect from September 1, 2015 are aimed at controlling access to ethanol to prevent harmful effects as well as revenue loss.