Suspect arrested as police seize 800 litres of chang'aa in Majengo

Polythene bags of Chang'aa [NPS/X]

Police have arrested a suspect and seized about 800 litres of illicit Chang’aa during a targeted operation in Majengo informal settlements in  Nairobi, as authorities intensify the crackdown on illegal alcohol and related criminal networks.

In a statement on Sunday, the National Police Service (NPS) said officers from Shauri Moyo Police Station in Buruburu Sub-County carried out the operation following credible intelligence on the existence of an illicit brew den operating within the densely populated area.

The raid was conducted on Saturday, December 27, 2025 with officers discovering large quantities of Chang’aa hidden in polythene bags in an apparent attempt to evade detection.

According to the police, the operation resulted in the recovery of approximately 800 litres of the illegal brew, dealing a blow to traders involved in the manufacture and distribution of Chang’aa within the Majengo area.

"The officers raided a suspected den, successfully seizing approximately 800 litres of Chang’aa, which had been concealed in polythene bags," the statement reads.

One suspect was arrested at the scene and is currently being held in police custody, awaiting arraignment in court.

“This operation reaffirms the National Police Service’s unwavering commitment to sustaining the crackdown on illicit brews and related criminal activities,” the NPS said.

The police added that such operations are aimed at dismantling illegal alcohol networks and protecting members of the public from the health and social dangers associated with consumption of illicit liquor.

Chang’aa, an unregulated spirit often brewed under unsafe conditions, has long been linked to serious health risks, including poisoning, blindness and death.

Authorities say the illegal trade also fuels other criminal activities and social problems in informal settlements, where the brew is often sold cheaply and widely consumed.

The NPS noted that the success of the Majengo operation was largely attributed to cooperation between the police and members of the public, who provided actionable intelligence that led officers to the suspected den.

The service lauded residents for their vigilance and urged communities to continue working closely with law enforcement to root out illegal activities in their neighbourhoods.

"The National Police Service commends the public for providing information and the officers involved for their swift response," concluded the statement.

The seizure comes amid renewed nationwide efforts by the government to curb the production and sale of illegal alcohol, which has persisted despite repeated crackdowns.

In recent months, police have stepped up patrols and raids in known hotspots, particularly in informal settlements and rural areas where illicit brews remain prevalent.