A multi-agency team on Thursday, January 8 night conducted a raid on a residential complex in Emali Town, Makueni County, dismantling a notorious illicit brewing den and seizing over 5,000 litres of counterfeit alcohol.
The operation — led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) — resulted in one arrest. This comes just a day after President William Ruto chaired a critical strategy meeting at State House, Nairobi, declaring substance abuse a national development and security emergency.
Speaking at the scene of the bust, NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa sent a stark warning to the powerful kingpins financing the toxic trade. He revealed that the Authority is drastically emboldening its supply suppression strategies following the Presidential directive.
“NACADA is at the forefront in leading a multifaceted, coordinated national response to this menace,” Dr. Omerikwa declared. “The so-called ‘big fish’ should be warned: we are stopping at nothing. We are coming for you, and you will pay for your heinous crimes.”
In a significant escalation, Dr. Omerikwa stated that consequences will now extend beyond arrests to include the full force of asset forfeiture. “As directed by the President, any properties proven to be proceeds of these illegal activities will be seized. Your ill-gotten wealth is no longer safe,” he asserted.
The Emali raid, which uncovered an unlicensed bar operating within a housing complex, exemplifies the targeted crackdown on embedded networks. Dr. Omerikwa credited vigilant citizens for the operation’s success, highlighting the crucial role of public intelligence.
“We laud the public for continuing to volunteer valuable information that is leading to the high-profile arrests and apprehension of those previously deemed ‘untouchables’ in society,” he said.
During the raid, NACADA officers uncovered a well coordinated syndicate that involves production of the illicit brew laced with industrial yeast to speed up the fermentation process. According to the Authority, the contents of the drink could be potent since the ingredients are unsafe for human consumption.
NACADA has urged anyone with information to confidentially share it through its 24-hour free-tip line, 1192, as the national war on the brewers and barons enters a decisive, uncompromising phase.
