The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has seized counterfeit alcohol worth an estimated Ksh 1.2 million during a joint operation in Keumbu, Kisii County.
The Wednesday raid, conducted alongside officers from the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), targeted a network suspected of manufacturing and distributing fake alcoholic drinks in the region.
According to NACADA, the crackdown followed weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance.
The confiscated drinks, which were packaged under popular brand names, are believed to pose serious health risks to consumers.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr Anthony Omerikwa said the operation was part of an ongoing nationwide campaign to dismantle illicit alcohol supply chains and safeguard public health.
“This operation in Kisii is part of the wider Rapid Results Initiative against illicit alcohol and drugs. Our message to those involved in this illegal trade is clear — we are coming for you,” Dr Omerikwa warned.
He noted that NACADA has observed a worrying increase in substance abuse and the proliferation of counterfeit alcoholic beverages across the country.
“We will pursue every lead and dismantle every network that threatens the safety and well-being of our communities,” he added.
The seized products and accompanying evidence have been handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigations and possible prosecution of the suspects.
NACADA urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any information on illegal alcohol production or distribution to help curb the trade.
