The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has cracked down on one of Naivasha’s most extensive alcohol counterfeiting rings.
The operation was conducted by a multi-agency operation over the weekend.
The targeted raids, carried out across three strategic establishments within the town, resulted in the arrest of three suspects who are expected to be arraigned in court.
During the operation, officers seized large volumes of suspicious alcoholic products believed to be toxic.
Samples of the confiscated drinks were forwarded to the Government Chemist for detailed analysis to verify their composition and assess potential health risks.
The enforcement exercise was conducted jointly with teams from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the National Police Service (NPS), and the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO).
The crackdown comes after growing concerns from Naivasha residents over the rising production, distribution, and consumption of poisonous alcoholic drinks.
Authorities say Naivasha’s location—serving as a gateway to the Rift Valley, a thriving tourism destination, and a short distance from Nairobi—has made it an attractive hub for unscrupulous traders seeking to conceal their operations and access vast markets.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa linked the weekend operation to the recent release of the Jukwaa la Usalama report, launched by President William Ruto.
The report identified alcohol and drug abuse as a serious threat to public safety, community cohesion, and national well-being.
“This enforcement action is a direct response to the concerns raised at the highest level and from the public,” Dr. Omerikwa said.
“Our reports indicate that bar owners in these areas are engaged in the illegal and deadly practice of mixing ethanol for consumption, often mislabeling fake content and selling it in quantities as low as 10ml, which is a direct violation of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act.”
He noted that with the festive season approaching, the Authority has intensified nationwide surveillance and operations to curb the spread of illicit alcohol.
“As we approach the festive season, the Authority has heightened nationwide crackdowns to ensure our children are not exposed to the dangers of illicit and counterfeit substances,” he added.
Omerikwa also issued a strong reminder to parents and guardians to take responsibility during the holiday period, when many young people are at home and vulnerable to negative influences.
“With children and youth at home for the holidays, adults must act as responsible role models. It is our collective duty to shield the younger generation from exposure and the lure of substance use. The choices we make directly influence theirs.”
NACADA has encouraged the public to report suspected cases of alcohol or drug abuse through its toll-free hotline, 1192, promising swift action.
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to protecting communities from the devastating impact of illicit substances and ensuring safer environments for all Kenyans.
