KRA launches new patrol boat to combat smuggling in Kenyan waters
The vessel, named KRA 009, was officially commissioned in Mombasa, signalling a firm move to enhance surveillance across Kenya’s waters.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has stepped up efforts to curb smuggling and safeguard the country's borders with the launch of a new patrol boat under its Marine Unit.
The vessel, named KRA 009, was officially commissioned in Mombasa, signalling a firm move to enhance surveillance across Kenya’s waters.
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Speaking at the event on Monday, KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga said the patrol boat is part of the authority’s wider strategy to tighten border control and combat illicit trade, which remains a major threat to the economy and public safety.
“As KRA, our mandate extends beyond revenue collection. We are a key player in national security through our role in border control. To this end, KRA has adopted a wide range of strategies and technological interventions to stop the surge of illicit trade,” Wattanga said.
He highlighted several measures already in place, including market surveillance, risk analysis, and collaboration between agencies. Others include K9 units, scanners at ports of entry, and continuous patrols on land and water.
Wattanga stressed the importance of focusing on maritime zones such as the Indian Ocean and Lake Victoria, areas that have become hotbeds for smuggling operations.
“The East African coastline has long been targeted by smugglers and criminal syndicates, making our maritime enforcement capability not just necessary but urgent,” he stated.
Kenya Revenue Authority's ‘KRA 009’ newly unveiled patrol vessel in Mombasa on April 14, 2025. (KRA)
He described the KRA 009 boat as a representation of the agency’s firm resolve to improve border enforcement and ensure fair trade.
Lilian Nyawanda, Commissioner of Customs and Border Controls, said illegal trade has flourished where controls are weak and oversight is poor. She called for stronger cooperation among state agencies and emphasised the risks posed by corruption.
“Illicit trade thrives where border controls are weak, where there is limited inter-agency collaboration, and unfortunately where corruption creeps into systems meant to safeguard the public good,” she said.
Nyawanda pointed to recent enforcement successes at the Mombasa Port, where between October and December 2024, officers uncovered over 1,100 enforcement violations, leading to tax collections exceeding Sh491 million and additional fines of Sh77 million.
The officers in the Marine Unit will work alongside the Kenya Coast Guard and other security forces to arrest suspects, search vessels, and seize contraband goods. The commissioning of KRA 009 strengthens KRA’s ability to guard Kenya’s territorial waters.
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