Police in Kiambu County have intercepted a tanker carrying 10,000 litres of suspected industrial ethanol along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway. The consignment was destined for an illicit alcohol manufacturing operation in Nairobi. Three people travelling in the tanker were arrested during the operation by officers from Lari Sub-County Police Headquarters. The suspects are expected to assist investigators in establishing the source and intended use of the consignment.
Kiambu County Commissioner George Matundura confirmed the interception and said samples of the substance have been taken to the Government Chemist for analysis to establish whether it is industrial ethanol. If the consignment had reached its intended destination and been used to manufacture second-generation alcoholic drinks, it could have generated an estimated street value of Ksh28 million. The police are working to determine the origin of the ethanol and identify those involved in the illicit trade.
The interception was carried out by officers from Lari Sub-County Police Headquarters. The police have been working to curb the transportation of illicit substances in the county. Kiambu County Police Commander Kennedy Samani has ordered the establishment of police roadblocks along major roads entering the county to facilitate inspection of vehicles and prevent the transportation of illicit substances.
The police have arrested three people in connection with the tanker and its contents. The suspects are cooperating with investigators to establish the source and intended destination of the consignment. The Government Chemist's analysis will help determine the nature of the substance and inform further action.
Illicit alcohol manufacturing is a significant concern in Kenya, with authorities working to disrupt and dismantle these operations. The police have been seizing large quantities of illicit substances in recent weeks, including cannabis and other contraband. The efforts aim to reduce the availability of illicit substances and prevent related crimes.
The police roadblocks will be used to inspect vehicles and prevent the transportation of illicit substances into the county. The move is part of a broader effort to curb the illicit trade and ensure public safety. Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activity and cooperate with the police in their efforts to combat crime.
The successful interception of the tanker is a significant achievement for the police in Kiambu County. The operation demonstrates the effectiveness of the police in disrupting illicit trade networks and preventing the distribution of contraband. The police will continue to work to prevent the transportation of illicit substances and ensure public safety in the county.
Key points
- The police intercepted a tanker carrying 10,000 litres of suspected industrial ethanol along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway.
- The consignment was destined for an illicit alcohol manufacturing operation in Nairobi.
- The police have arrested three people in connection with the tanker and its contents.
