Police recover uncustomed goods in operation against illicit trade
By Faith Lagat, August 16, 2025Police officers from Garbatulla Police Station recovered uncustomed goods during a patrol along the LAPSSET corridor in the early hours of Saturday, August 16, 2025, in a significant blow to smuggling operations.
The recovery, confirmed by the National Police Service (NPS), highlights the ongoing efforts to curb illegal trade that undermines national security and revenue collection.
“Police officers from Garbatulla Police Station in Isiolo County recovered uncustomed goods during a patrol operation along the LAPSSET corridor in the early hours of 16 August 2025,”read thePOLICE statement.
Chase leads to discovery
According to the NPS, the incident occurred when officers intercepted a motor vehicle along the Kinna–Garbatulla road. The vehicle attempted to evade police but ended up in a ditch, allowing authorities to carry out a detailed search. Officers discovered 52 bags of sugar, each weighing 25 kg, and nine cartons of spaghetti.
The haul reflects the scale of smuggling along the LAPSSET corridor, a key transport route linking Kenya with South Sudan and Ethiopia. Authorities say such operations not only evade taxation but also threaten the integrity of Kenya’s supply chains for essential goods.
Person of interest in custody
Following the recovery, the vehicle was escorted to Garbatulla Police Station, and one person of interest was taken into custody. The NPS emphasised that such arrests are crucial in dismantling networks involved in transporting uncustomed goods.
“The vehicle was escorted to the police station, and one suspect was arrested,” read the statement.
Economic crimes like smuggling are a persistent challenge in Kenya, with porous borders and strategic transport routes frequently exploited. The arrest underscores the police’s proactive approach in ensuring accountability and curbing the flow of illicit goods.
Tackling smuggling
The National Police Service reiterated its determination to fight smuggling and other economic offenses.
“The National Police Service remains committed to combating smuggling and other economic crimes that undermine national security and revenue collection,” the statement affirmed.
As investigations continue, the operation in Garbatulla serves as a warning to criminal networks exploiting Kenya’s transport corridors. Police say sustained vigilance is key to safeguarding national interests and ensuring that illegal trade does not go unchecked along critical infrastructure routes.