Kenyan authorities have arrested two men, Alex Mwaruta and James Munala Inyangala, in connection with a suspected counterfeit juice production operation in Kabete. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) conducted a raid at a homestead in Muthua, Kabete, following a tip-off from a member of the public. Detectives found the two suspects "in the middle of producing counterfeit juice," according to the DCI.
The DCI said a search of the premises revealed a fully fledged counterfeiting setup, complete with approximately 1,400 filled bottles of suspected counterfeit juice in 200ml and 300ml sizes. The bottles were seized along with 56 cartons containing empty bottles, five packets of bottle tops, two blue drums, and three basins of different colours. The materials are believed to have been used in the alleged manufacture and packaging of the counterfeit drinks.
Detectives also recovered office glue, rubber stamps and ink, as well as assorted stickers, which are commonly used in counterfeiting operations. An expired certificate authorising the use of the Standardisation Mark for a well-known juice brand was also found. The DCI stated that the premises contained various powdery and colourless substances stored in polythene bags in 50-gram portions and in 200ml and 300ml bottles.
The two suspects, Alex Mwaruta and James Munala Inyangala, remain in custody as detectives continue investigating the alleged counterfeit production operation. The DCI warned that beverages made in "unregulated and unhygienic environments" could put consumers at serious health risk. The agency emphasised that counterfeit production also hurts legitimate manufacturers by competing with their products illegally and denies the government tax revenue.
The DCI has urged members of the public to report suspected counterfeit activities through its toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000. The agency said members of the public can provide information anonymously. This appeal comes as part of a broader effort to combat counterfeiting and ensure public safety.
The counterfeit juice production operation in Kabete is a significant concern for authorities, given the potential health risks to consumers. The DCI's swift action in response to a tip-off from a member of the public highlights the importance of community involvement in the fight against counterfeiting. The agency's efforts aim to protect consumers and uphold the law.
The investigation is ongoing, with the DCI working to determine the scope of the counterfeit operation and identify any potential connections to other counterfeiting activities. The arrest of the two suspects and the seizure of the counterfeit goods demonstrate the DCI's commitment to enforcing the law and safeguarding public health.
Key points
- Two men were arrested in Kabete for allegedly producing counterfeit juice.
- The DCI seized over 1,400 bottles of suspected counterfeit juice and manufacturing materials.
- The agency warned that counterfeit production poses serious health risks to consumers and hurts legitimate manufacturers.
