The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) conducted a multi-agency operation in Kapsabet Township, Nandi Central Sub-County, seizing thousands of bottles of suspected second-generation liquor and uncustomary goods. The operation, carried out alongside officers from Kapsabet Police Station, targeted premises suspected of dealing in counterfeit and illicit alcohol. This crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to rid the county of illegal brews blamed for rising cases of alcohol abuse and related health complications.
During the operation, authorities seized 49 cartons of Kingdom Vodka, each containing 24 bottles of 200ml, alongside 10 cartons of John’s X5 Gin with 24 bottles of 200ml each, at Shazton Hotel store near Canaan Market. In a separate raid at Whispers Guest House and Restaurant, officers recovered 118 cartons of Kingdom Vodka, plus 47 additional pieces of the same brand packed in a sack. The total haul was 4,008 bottles of Kingdom Vodka and 240 bottles of John’s X5 Gin.
Two suspects, aged 27 and 28, were arrested at the two premises and are expected to be arraigned in court to face relevant charges, including violations under the Excise Act and dealings in uncustomed goods. The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has been roped in to pursue tax-related offenses. The suspects will face prosecution for their alleged involvement in the illicit liquor trade.
NACADA Board Director Benjamin Kuttoh reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to dismantling illicit liquor networks. He called on the public to keep volunteering information that will help rid society of criminal elements profiteering from this trade. The Authority continues to carry out intelligence-led, multi-agency operations against counterfeiters.
Authorities warned that the operation is far from over, noting that similar crackdowns will continue across Nandi County and beyond. Residents were urged to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, as the government tightens its grip on the multi-million-shilling illicit alcohol trade that continues to endanger lives, particularly among the youth.
The seized consignment was secured as evidence pending further legal processes. The operation demonstrates the government's efforts to combat the illicit liquor trade and its related health complications. The public is encouraged to support the government's efforts by providing information on illicit liquor activities.
The crackdown in Nandi County is part of a broader effort to address the issue of illicit liquor in Kenya. The government, through NACADA and other agencies, is working to rid the country of counterfeit and illicit alcohol, which has been linked to various social and health problems. The operation's success will depend on continued public cooperation and support.
Key points
- NACADA seized 4,008 bottles of Kingdom Vodka and 240 bottles of John’s X5 Gin during the operation.
- Two suspects were arrested and will face charges under the Excise Act and dealings in uncustomed goods.
- The operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat the illicit liquor trade in Kenya.
