The National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has seized a large consignment of counterfeit alcoholic drinks in a major enforcement operation conducted at a depot in Kilome Market, Mukaa Sub-County, Makueni.
The operation, which was carried out late on Friday evening, concluded at around 10:00 PM, led by officers from NACADA in collaboration with a multi-agency team comprising officials from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the National Police Service.
Acting on a tip-off from members of the public, the enforcement team raided the premises where they intercepted a lorry offloading alcoholic beverages and a pick-up vehicle being loaded for distribution.
Three suspects, including the lorry driver, were arrested at the scene.
According to a statement by NACADA, authorities discovered thousands of bottles of assorted alcoholic drinks stored in several rooms within the depot during the operation.
Upon verification, officials established that the excise stamps affixed on the products were counterfeit, confirming that the consignment had not been lawfully manufactured or taxed.
The seized goods were immediately confiscated and escorted to the KRA warehouse in Likoni for further investigation and processing.
The suspects were later booked at Kilome Police Station and are expected to face further legal action as investigations continue.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr Anthony Omerikwa said the operation reflects the agency’s continued commitment to protecting public health and eliminating illicit alcohol from circulation.
“NACADA prioritises the safety of the community above all else. We will continue to carry out operations aimed at ensuring that those operating outside the law are brought to book,” he said.
He warned that counterfeit alcoholic drinks pose significant health risks to consumers, including potential poisoning and other severe health complications.
Dr Omerikwa added that the Authority will not relent in its efforts to dismantle illegal alcohol distribution networks across the country.
He further noted that the crackdown is part of ongoing coordinated efforts between enforcement agencies to curb the spread of illicit products and ensure compliance with excise regulations.
A resident of Kilome Market, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal, thanked NACADA for the swift action.
“These suspects have been colluding their way into illicit operations for too long. NACADA is doing a good job. We feel safer knowing that such dangerous drinks are being removed from our market,” the resident said.
The case is currently being handled by KRA’s investigation and enforcement team, with the suspects booked at Kilome Police Station.
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