Police launch investigation into suspected copper smuggling at Mombasa port
Before the inspection, officials were confused because different units had conflicting instructions regarding the number of containers to be examined.
Authorities are investigating a suspected mineral smuggling racket at the port of Mombasa after over 10 container loads of copper were intercepted.
Copper is classified as a strategic mineral, and the interception has raised concerns about illegal exports.
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A multi-agency security team, including the Mining Police Unit under the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the Kenya Revenue Authority, and the Kenya Ports Authority, opened five containers yesterday to collect samples for further analysis.
Before the inspection, officials were confused because different units had conflicting instructions regarding the number of containers to be examined.
Coast Regional Mining Officer Paul Karue initially reported that only three containers were under investigation.
However, further checks revealed that more than 10 containers were at the port police station.
"The consignment was intercepted about two weeks ago. Documents show the owner mis-declared the mineral as manganese to avoid paying taxes and royalties, as copper is classified as a strategic mineral," Karue said.
The containers had already cleared export procedures when they were seized.
"Export documents indicate each container held about 25 metric tonnes of manganese from Kilifi. However, preliminary tests show otherwise. More samples have been collected for further analysis," he added.
The discovery has raised concerns about the potential scale of mineral smuggling through the port, with investigators now working to determine whether more consignments have been illegally exported without the knowledge of relevant state agencies.
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