Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) enforcement officers have uncovered a secret underground chamber used to conceal suspected illicit ethanol and tobacco in Kimsop Central, Baringo County.
In a press statement on September 16, 2026, the Deputy Commissioner for Enforcement said KRA made the discovery during an intelligence-led operation targeting a suspected illicit alcohol trader.
“Kenya Revenue Authority enforcement officers have uncovered a sophisticated concealment facility used to hide suspected illicit alcohol, ethanol and tobacco during an intelligence-led operation in Kimsop Central, Baringo County,” the statement read in part.
The operation involved the revenue officers from the North Rift region, Baringo Central Police Station, and local administrators.
Officers encountered more than six gates at the homestead, which KRA said appeared designed to restrict access and frustrate enforcement efforts.
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Hidden Chamber Discovered by KRA
A search of the premises led officers to an underground room built beneath the bathroom floor.
KRA said the chamber had been used to conceal suspected illicit products.
“The search led to the discovery of a secret underground room constructed beneath the floor of a bathroom, which had been used to conceal suspected illicit products. The hidden chamber demonstrates the increasingly sophisticated measures employed by illicit traders to evade detection and conceal prohibited goods.”
Officers seized nine jerricans containing 30 liters each of suspected ethanol, 40 sachets containing 200ml each of suspected ethanol, and six kilograms of tobacco.
The seized goods were estimated to be worth KSh226,292, with KSh170,212 in taxes at risk of being lost.
Suspect Escapes
The team secured the scene to facilitate further investigations and processing of the seized goods.
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KRA said the suspect escaped during the operation, with efforts to apprehend him ongoing.
The authority said such operations are aimed at protecting government revenue and addressing potential health risks linked to illicit and unregulated alcohol and tobacco products.
“Beyond protecting government revenue, KRA enforcement operations also play an important role in safeguarding the public from the potential health risks associated with illicit and unregulated alcohol and tobacco products. Such operations also help promote compliance with the law and ensure a level playing field for businesses that operate within the legal framework,” the statement noted.
KRA said it will continue conducting intelligence-led operations with other government agencies to disrupt illicit trade and protect revenue.
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