Two arrested as NACADA leads early-morning operation in Kitui

A NACADA-led multi-agency operation in Kitui County has resulted in the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of what authorities describe as illicit second-generation alcohol.

The dawn operation, conducted by officers from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), began at the Trade Lounge Club in Kalundu.

According to officials, the team recovered 670 cartons of what they suspect to be illicit alcohol stored in concealed rooms.

Following the raid, officers traced the alleged supply chain to a homestead in Wikililye, Nzambani Ward, where they reported finding an unlicensed distillation site.

NACADA said the makeshift setup contained equipment, including mixers, bottling machines, storage drums and what appeared to be counterfeit stickers.

Two individuals were arrested at the scene.

NACADA Chief Executive Officer Antony Omerikwa said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal alcohol production.

“This seizure and the dismantling of this plant is a significant victory, but it reveals the dangerous, underground networks we are fighting,” he said.

“These toxic brews continue to put countless lives at risk. Let this be a clear message: the government is not relenting in its mission to rid our nation of these substances.”

At the Kitui Police Station, OCPD Mwisiho Karanja confirmed the arrests and the recovery of the exhibits, noting that investigations are underway.

“The scale of this operation shows this is not a small-time crime. We are committed to fully enforcing the President’s directive to address illicit brews and protect residents,” he said.

Local leaders and some residents have in the past raised concerns about the presence of illicit alcohol in the county.