The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and
Drug Abuse (NACADA) has seized 7,000 litres of illegal brew and destroyed
70,000 litres of Kangara in a major operation in Kakamega South.
The crackdown, conducted today in Malinya, Sigalagala, and
Musingu villages, targeted sophisticated brewing sites identified after weeks
of surveillance and community tip-offs.
“This is not just a raid – it’s a surgical strike against
the heart of illicit alcohol production in this region,” said the lead
investigator during the operation.
Three suspects were arrested and are being held at Kakamega
Police Station on charges related to the production and distribution of illegal
alcohol.
Officers uncovered brewing operations fitted with industrial-scale equipment. Items seized included 12 large metallic drums, more than 500kg of sugar, and other fermentation paraphernalia.
“These weren’t small-time operations,” an officer noted.
“We’re talking about setups capable of producing thousands of litres weekly.”
NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa said the bust was part of a
renewed nationwide campaign under the Jukwaa la Usalama initiative.
“As directed by
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, we are intensifying efforts to eradicate this
menace that destroys families and communities,” he said.
Dr. Omerikwa warned that the average age of alcohol
initiation in Kenya has dropped to just seven years.
“This is a national emergency that demands urgent,
collective action,” he said.
“During the school holidays, we urge parents, teachers, and
community leaders to be extra vigilant.”
He also cautioned bars operating in legal grey areas:
“We are coming for
all busaa-selling outlets hiding behind questionable licences. No one will
profit from destroying our youth under the guise of legitimate business.”
Community leaders praised the operation. “For years, these
breweries have poisoned our youth and fuelled crime,” said a Musingu elder.
“We hope this marks the start of sustained action, not just
a one-time show of force.”
The operation comes weeks after the launch of the National
Policy for the Prevention, Management, and Control of Alcohol, Drugs, and
Substance Abuse, which prioritises multi-agency action and community
involvement.
NACADA confirmed
similar raids are planned for other hotspots, especially near schools and
residential areas.
