Nyeri, Kenya | April 27, 2026 — A major NACADA-led crackdown on illicit alcohol in the Mt. Kenya region has led to the seizure of thousands of counterfeit vodka bottles, hundreds of litres of suspected ethanol, and a fully equipped bottling operation concealed within a residential home in Nyeri’s upmarket Klassique area.
Authorities have identified a key suspect, an aspiring Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Othaya, who is currently on the run.
The operation, conducted on Monday, April 27 afternoon by a NACADA-led multi-agency enforcement team, was prompted by credible intelligence from members of the public. Officials described the raid as a significant disruption of an organized network involved in the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit alcoholic products across the region.
Speaking after the operation, NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa commended citizens for their role in the successful bust, underscoring the importance of public vigilance in combating substance abuse.
“We are deeply grateful to members of the public who continue to volunteer critical information,” he said. “Their courage and cooperation are instrumental in protecting communities from the harmful effects of alcohol and drug abuse.”
Upon gaining access to the premises, officers uncovered what investigators termed a sophisticated, large-scale illicit production hub operating discreetly within a single residential unit. Recovered items included dozens of crates of suspected counterfeit vodka brands, 275 litres of raw ethanol stored in jerricans, a bottle capping machine, and various packaging materials such as counterfeit stamps, bottle tops, and branded stickers. Also seized was a Nissan NV200 vehicle believed to have been used in distribution.
Authorities noted that the presence of industrial equipment and chemical additives, including citric acid and food colouring, points to a well-organised operation engaged not only in distribution but also in the production and packaging of fake alcoholic beverages.
Despite the scale of the operation, no arrests were made at the scene. However, investigators have positively identified the primary suspect, a tenant of the raided residence and a political aspirant in Othaya. Law enforcement agencies have since launched a manhunt and are urging the suspect to surrender.
“We know who he is, and his political ambitions do not place him above the law,” Dr. Omerikwa stated. “We are pursuing him, and we expect him to present himself to authorities. The ongoing national directive to intensify the fight against drug and substance abuse has strengthened our enforcement efforts, and we will not relent.”
The raid underscores a growing trend of illicit alcohol operations being embedded within residential neighbourhoods, often under the guise of ordinary living spaces. Authorities say the development highlights the need for sustained public awareness and inter-agency collaboration.
Officials reaffirmed that the fight against illicit alcohol remains a shared responsibility, warning that no location is beyond the reach of enforcement. The Nyeri operation, they said, sends a clear message to perpetrators that the law will be applied decisively, regardless of status or location.
