A multi-agency team of undercover detectives on Tuesday, April 11, raided a house in Kahawa West where Ksh32 million property was recovered.
In a statement by the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the team led by officers from the Economic & Commercial Crimes Unit and the taxman laid a trap for a woman who was in possession of illicit goods made of cigarettes.
During the operation, the police first posed as potential clients who wanted to buy the goods before launching the raid.
In the process, the suspect unsuspectingly revealed details of the illicit trade which police indicated was entered into evidence.
The DCI added that the woman was in possession of counterfeit stamps which were being used to disguise the goods as authentic.
Police estimated that the taxman lost Ksh18 million in taxes through the counterfeit stamps.
Additionally, the police indicated that the illicit trade may have been multinational owing to counterfeit stamps belonging to the Uganda Revenue Authority.
"The consignment comprising over 20,000 packets of popular cigarette brands was seized by the undercover team.
"Also recovered during the operation were assorted counterfeit stamps from the Kenyan taxman and the Uganda Revenue Authority as well as empty cigarette cartons" read the statement in part.
After interrogation, the woman was booked at the Muthaiga Police Station even as detectives continue with their investigations.
Kenyans were urged to be on the lookout for suspicious products in the market with detectives calling for collaboration with members of the public in combating the trade.
According to the DCI, Kenyans who wish to report similar incidents to the agency can do so through 0800 722 203.
