The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have commenced a crackdown on smugglers illegally importing powdered milk into the country. This action comes in response to a direct order from Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and aims to address the rampant smuggling of milk powder.

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has thrown his weight behind the crackdown, emphasizing the need to tackle the issue of illegal milk powder imports. During a recent inspection at the Inland Container Depot in Nairobi, Linturi expressed concern over the substantial quantity of milk powder, valued at over Ksh150 million, that had entered the country without being properly taxed. He estimated that the government stands to lose more than Ksh52 million in tax revenue due to this illicit trade.

“We have put adequate measures, our people from Kenya Dairy Board in conjunction with the DCI and customs officers have put adequate arrangements in every border entry and I assure farmers, that no powdered milk will come from outside and get into the country,” Deputy President Gachagua stated during the commissioning of the Kenya Co-operative Creameries (KCC) milk plant in Nyahururu, Laikipia.

A total of six suspects have already been apprehended in connection with the ongoing crackdown, signaling the seriousness of the authorities in addressing this issue. Gachagua highlighted the government’s commitment to preventing the entry of powdered milk from outside the country, ensuring that milk is purchased directly from local farmers.

This crackdown is a significant step towards curbing the illegal importation of milk powder, which has been adversely impacting local milk prices and posing a threat to the country’s dairy industry.