Police destroy over 100 litres of illicit brew in Kayole crackdown

Some the equipment used in the production of the illegal brew being destroyed on July 17, 2025/NPS/X

More than 100 litres of kangara, a banned local brew, have been destroyed during a multi-agency operation carried out by police on Thursday in the Mwengenye area of Kayole, Nairobi County.

The operation, led by officers from the Obama Police Station in Kayole Sub-County, targeted illegal brewing dens situated near Dandora Bridge along the Nairobi River.

In addition to the kangara, officers also destroyed more than ten 20-litre plastic jerricans that were being used in the production of the illegal brew.

Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the individuals involved in the brewing operation.

According to the police, the raid was part of a sustained effort to eliminate illicit alcohol from local communities.

"The National Police Service (NPS) remains committed to working with all stakeholders to eliminate illicit brews and drugs," NPS stated.

This latest raid follows a series of similar operations across the country in recent weeks.

In Nandi County, on June 13, police from Kapsabet Police Station, working alongside National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), seized 240 litres of chang’aa during a targeted raid in the Surungai area.

One suspect was arrested with the brew concealed in a 50-kilogram blue sack.

He was taken to Kapsabet Police Station for processing and is expected to be arraigned in court.

Just days earlier, on June 9, officers in Kisii County seized 20 litres of chang’aa and destroyed 210 litres of kangara during an operation in Nyangusu sub-location, Nyamache sub-county.

A suspect was arrested and later charged at the Ogembo Law Courts.

Residents, including parents and teachers, expressed support for the efforts and pointed to increasing concerns about the harmful impact of illicit alcohol on families and the wider community.

“These brews have torn apart so many homes. The police action gives us hope that our children can be protected from this danger,” One local parent shared her relief.

The National Police Service has reiterated its dedication to eradicating the production, distribution and consumption of illegal alcohol, saying the crackdown will continue across all counties.