Nacada seizes Sh5m illicit alcohol in Kabati raid

A multi-agency operation in Kabati, Kitui County, has led to the seizure of suspected illicit alcohol worth about Sh5 million.

The team also arrested four people following the raid conducted by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).

Cup pressure peaks as Shabana host Kenya Police in blockbuster quarter-final Football

Upper Hill coach Walgwe unperturbed despite drawing giants in Prescott Cup group phase Rugby

The operation targeted a bar and wines and spirits outlet located less than 100 metres from Kauwi Senior School, in what authorities described as a breach of regulations prohibiting alcohol outlets within 300 metres of learning institutions.

Among those arrested is a local businessman said to be the owner of the premises, alongside three employees.

The four are in custody awaiting arraignment. Addressing the press after the raid, NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa said the operation was intelligence-led and aimed at curbing the spread of illicit alcohol in the Lower Eastern region.

“It is unacceptable for alcohol dispensing outlets and storage facilities to operate this close to learning institutions because of the risk posed to children,” Omerikwa said.

He cited data indicating early exposure to substance abuse among minors and warned against situating alcohol outlets near schools.

During the operation, officers recovered more than 900 cartons of assorted spirits and over 250 crates of alcohol packaged in 500ml bottles.

NACADA said the products are suspected to be counterfeit and bore what appeared to be fake Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) stamps.

The seized items were transported to a secure location for verification and further analysis.

Omerikwa said the agency would continue working with other enforcement bodies to dismantle networks involved in the manufacture and distribution of illicit alcohol.

Residents who gathered at the scene welcomed the crackdown, citing concerns over the impact of illicit brews on families and young people in the area.

Authorities indicated that investigations are ongoing and that further legal action, including possible asset recovery proceedings, may follow as part of efforts to deter similar offence