NACADA nabs Sh17.5m counterfeit alcohol in Nyeri

Authorities on Wednesday morning carried out a major crackdown on illicit alcohol in Ruring’u, Nyeri County, seizing counterfeit drinks and fake revenue stamps valued at Sh17.5 million.

The operation, led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) in collaboration with other enforcement agencies, was conducted in the early hours and targeted a wines and spirits outlet suspected of trading in contraband products.

According to NACADA, the raid was informed by intelligence reports and resulted in the recovery of large quantities of assorted alcoholic brands,  alongside 125 litres of ethanol.

Fake Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) stamps allegedly used to disguise the counterfeit goods as genuine were also confiscated.

One suspect was arrested at the scene and handed over to the police for further investigation.

Authorities noted that the suspect is linked to ongoing cases in court relating to the illicit alcohol trade.

NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa said the operation was part of the 100-Day Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) against illicit alcohol, launched by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen earlier this week.

“This arrest should serve as a warning to those engaged in the illegal alcohol trade. We are determined to enforce the law and protect communities from harmful products,” Dr. Omerikwa stated.

He added that the Authority is intensifying operations across the country in line with the government directive, noting that enforcement teams are leaving “no stone unturned” in the ongoing campaign.

The seizure also underscores the importance of the recently launched National Alcohol Policy 2025, which calls for stricter regulation, enhanced enforcement, and greater consumer protection from unsafe products.

Officials confirmed that the seized items would undergo further analysis, and the suspect is expected to face charges once investigations are complete.

The Nyeri raid highlights the government’s resolve to combat the sale and distribution of counterfeit alcohol, which poses both public health risks and revenue losses to the state.