In a significant blow to the trade of counterfeit alcohol, a NACADA-led multi-agency team, which included the National Police Service (NPS) executed a precision operation in Kitui Central on Sunday, recovering thousands of litres of illicit liquor and arresting two suspects.

The day-long, intelligence-led raid, which concluded at 8 pm, targeted two homesteads in Mulutu and Kavalola villages, unearthing a massive stockpile of suspicious alcohol products.

At the Mulutu homestead, officers made a staggering discovery. The haul included 15 crates of Santa King (750ml), 1 crate of Santa King (500ml), 32 cartons of Rider Brandy, 95 cartons of Trigger Brandy, 6 cartons of Trigger Vodka, and 54 assorted bottles. In a critical interception, a Probox vehicle, registration KCU 586U, loaded with 23 cartons of Trigger Vodka, was stopped. The driver, a resident of the homestead, was arrested.

Simultaneously, in Kavalola village, officers recovered 49 cartons of Red Ice Vodka and arrested one suspect.

Preliminary assessments indicate all seized exhibits bear fake Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) stamps. The entire consignment was transported using an NPS lorry to Kitui Police Station, awaiting official verification by KRA officials to pave the way for legal action.

This operation was part of NACADA’s enhanced weekend crackdown across four counties. Attributing the success to community cooperation, NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa commended the public for their vigilance.

“NACADA commends members of the public for volunteering valuable information that continues to assist the Authority in weeding out criminals from our communities,” stated Dr. Omerikwa. He strongly encouraged citizens to maintain their vigilance and continue sharing crucial tips through the Authority’s free, anonymous hotline, 1192.

The arrests and seizures mark a critical step in disrupting the supply chain of potentially harmful, tax-evading products in the region, safeguarding public health and safety.