A multi-agency team led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) carried out a coordinated enforcement operation in Kabaa, Machakos County, leading to the recovery of alcohol described by the agency as contraband valued at about Sh13 million.
According to NACADA, the early-morning operation targeted two premises suspected to be among the largest distributors of illicit alcohol in the area.
The authority said the premises were operating without licences and were raided simultaneously as part of a wider crackdown on counterfeit alcohol networks.
During the operation, officers recovered thousands of bottles of alcohol believed to be counterfeit, along with what NACADA said were fake Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) excise stamps.
The team also found a large number of empty bottles bearing labels of well-known alcohol brands, which officials said pointed to possible repackaging and redistribution activities.
One of the premises was located within a residential neighbourhood. NACADA said this raised concerns about public safety, particularly the exposure of families and children to illegal alcohol-related activities.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr Anthony Omerikwa, who was present during the operation, said the agency views such cases as more than economic crimes.
“This is not just a crime against the economy, but a direct attack on the health and social fabric of our communities,” he said.
Dr Omerikwa further stated that preliminary checks indicated one of the operators had previously been arrested over similar allegations. He said this demonstrated the persistence of the illegal alcohol trade despite earlier enforcement efforts.
In a statement issued at the scene, the NACADA boss said action would be taken against the properties involved.
“The premises where this recovery was made will be processed for forfeiture to the state, as directed by His Excellency the President. We are sending an unequivocal message that there will be no haven for those profiting from poison,” he said.
The Kabaa operation was described by NACADA as the third major enforcement action in the region within two days. Similar raids were conducted in Joska, Machakos town, and parts of neighbouring Makueni County.
The latest crackdown follows a recent presidential directive that placed the fight against alcohol and substance abuse among the government’s top priorities.
NACADA said the renewed focus has seen agencies intensify operations aimed at disrupting supply chains and discouraging repeat offences.
The authority added that the use of asset forfeiture is intended to weaken the financial incentive behind the illegal alcohol trade, while protecting communities from products that pose serious health risks.
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