Detectives have seized assorted cigarettes and bundles of suspected counterfeit Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) excise duty stamps during an intelligence-led operation in Githunguri Township, Kiambu County.
The operation targeted businessman Patrick Muiruri Mwangi, whom detectives believed was involved in the sale and distribution of uncustomed and smuggled cigarettes.
According to DCI, detectives mounted undercover surveillance on two premises linked to Mwangi after receiving intelligence on his alleged activities.The officers monitored suspects movement before raiding the premises.
The house was then thoroughly searched by the police.Various boxes and loose packets of foreign and local cigarettes were found and recovered. Other items recovered included bunches of KRA excise duty stamp, which were believed to be forgeries.
The premises were thereafter secured as detectives waited for the KRA Investigations and enforcement team to examine the seized items to establish the extent of the suspected illicit trade.
Mwangi, however evaded the arrest and is currently on the run as detectives pursue leads to trace and apprehend him.
A DCI spokesperson said that the operation is indicative of DCI working with other law enforcement agencies to dismantle these networks for counterfeit and illicit products.
The crackdown also seek to safeguard legitimate businesses and prevent government revenue losses from the illegal economy.
