By Jabali Digital
A warrant of arrest has been issued against Festus Koech Tuitoek.
This is after he was found in possession of alcoholic drinks fixed with counterfeit stamps in Kimnai Trading Center, Elgeyo Marakwet County.
The warrant was issued by Iten Law Court Senior Principal Magistrate Gladys Odhiambo, after the suspect failed to appear for plea taking in a tax fraud case hanging on his shoulders.
Tuitoek faces charges of being in possession of 416 bottles of African Special Vodka, 348 bottles of Smart Vodka and 116 bottles of Magic Times Gin each of 250ml, all affixed with counterfeit excise stamps at Kapkoi.
As such, he reportedly caused the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) a total tax liability of Sh126,158.39, consisting of an excise duty loss of Sh78,412.4 and Value Added Tax (VAT) loss of Sh47,745.99.
According to KRA’s Commissioner in charge of investigations and enforcement, the court also ordered the forfeiture of the police cash bail earlier placed by the suspect.
The case comes up for mention on 13th May, 2025 where the police will be expected to confirm his arrest.
If found guilty, the accused will serve a jail term not exceeding three years or a fine not exceeding Sh5 million shillings or both as provided for by the Excise Duty Act 2015, and as amended by Section 43 of the Finance Act 2023.
KRA in collaboration with other partner government agencies, are continuously pursuing unscrupulous traders involved in ethanol smuggling, manufacture and distribution of alcohol products that are affixed with counterfeit excise stamps as well as production of the counterfeit excise stamps.
KRA is also actively unearthing tax evasion schemes to boost tax compliance and adherence to tax laws and procedures, while ensuring fair trade within the market.
The authority is urging taxpayers to pay their taxes to avoid punitive enforcement measures that include arrest and prosecution.
