The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intercepted 52 refurbished mobile phones and three drones at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi in an operation targeting suspected smuggling.
In a media brief issued on Saturday, October 17, 2026, KRA said the items were discovered after customs officers subjected two black backpacks carried by an airport cleaner to screening using a CT baggage scanner.
The incident occurred during the clearance of arriving passengers when officers noticed the airport employee carrying the bags as she exited the terminal. Upon being approached, the cleaner reportedly attempted to flee but was intercepted for questioning.
During interrogation, the employee told customs officers that a female passenger had handed her the bags and asked her to take them through customs.
Further investigations led officers to trace the passenger, who had arrived in the country aboard an international flight. The woman confirmed that she had handed the backpacks to the airport worker while using the airport restrooms.
KRA said a physical inspection of the bags, conducted in the presence of both the passenger and the employee, confirmed the presence of 52 refurbished assorted mobile phones and three drones, alongside controllers, batteries and other accessories.
The recovered drones included two DJI Mini 3 Pro drones and one DJI Air 25 drone, together with their respective controllers, batteries and accessories. Other items found in the bags included mobile phone chargers, travel adapters, USB cables, screen protectors and personal effects.
The intercepted goods have since been secured and deposited at the Customs warehouse pending further action.
KRA Warns on Drone Import Regulations
KRA used the interception to highlight the importance of baggage-scanning technology in detecting goods suspected of being concealed or transported through unauthorised channels.
The authority said it continues to strengthen technology-driven and risk-based passenger screening to curb attempts to circumvent customs controls while facilitating legitimate travel and trade.
It also reminded travellers and importers that the importation of drones into Kenya is restricted and requires the relevant authorisation from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
Travellers bringing drones into the country are therefore required to establish and comply with the applicable regulatory requirements before importing the equipment.
KRA reiterated its commitment to protecting government revenue, safeguarding Kenya’s borders and ensuring that goods entering the country comply with applicable import regulations.
