Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced an intensified nationwide crackdown on illicit alcohol, with authorities seizing 2.8 million litres of illegal brews and spirits in recent operations.
The multi-agency crackdown, led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse, is part of ongoing efforts to combat drug and substance abuse following a Presidential directive declaring the vice a national development and security emergency.
“The crackdown is in line with the directive to address drug and substance abuse as a matter of national concern,” Murkomen said.
According to the Ministry, analysis of the seizures indicates that the illicit alcohol trade is most prevalent in the Rift Valley, Nyanza, and Western regions, which accounted for the highest volumes recovered.
Counties such as Kisii, Nairobi, Kakamega, Nakuru, and West Pokot have been identified as key hotspots.
“These regions continue to present significant challenges, with high volumes of illegal brews being intercepted,” the CS noted.
In contrast, Central and Coastal regions have recorded relatively lower volumes, attributed to sustained enforcement efforts, while the North Eastern region has reported minimal cases.
Murkomen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining the crackdown and dismantling illegal networks.
“We will continue with targeted operations to dismantle illicit alcohol networks and protect the public from harmful substances,” he said.
The ongoing operations form part of a broader government strategy to curb substance abuse and enhance public safety across the country.
