A major enforcement operation led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has resulted in the seizure of over 1,700 bottles of suspected counterfeit alcoholic beverages in Nyandarua North Sub-County.
The raid, conducted late Saturday afternoon in the Uruku area, targeted two local establishments Beer Wholesalers Wines and Spirits and Travellers Pub suspected of distributing unregulated and potentially dangerous alcoholic products.
The operation was led by NACADA’s Head of Enforcement, Senior Superintendent of Police Nicholas Kosgei, and supported by Nyandarua County Coordinator Andrew Githua and Inspector Ian Liru, who coordinated with local law enforcement to ensure a smooth execution.
Authorities arrested the 44-year-old female proprietor of the premises and seized 1,710 bottles, each measuring 250ml, of assorted alcoholic drinks.
The brands included popular but suspiciously labeled products such as Tycoon, Sweet Berry, Dallas, Brandy, Jambo, and other soft beverages suspected to be tampered with.
Preliminary visual inspections raised significant concerns that the beverages could be counterfeit and thus hazardous to public health.
The seized stock was secured as evidence, and samples have been forwarded to the Government Chemist for laboratory testing and confirmation.
“This operation is part of a broader national crackdown aimed at dismantling illegal alcohol networks and protecting the public from dangerous, unregulated substances,” said Mr. Kosgei following the raid. He emphasized NACADA’s commitment to ensuring that illicit brewers and sellers face the full force of the law.
The suspect is expected to be formally charged in court once the chemical analysis is complete and legal proceedings are initiated.
NACADA officials used the opportunity to caution residents and business operators against engaging in or supporting the distribution of illicit alcoholic products.
They also urged members of the public to report any suspicious alcohol outlets or brands to the nearest authorities.
“This is not just an enforcement issue, but a public health emergency. Communities must work together with authorities to root out this growing menace, especially in rural and semi-urban areas where oversight is often limited,” added County Coordinator Githua.
NACADA has reiterated its unwavering commitment to its national mandate safeguarding Kenyans from the harmful effects of alcohol and substance abuse through enforcement, public education, and stakeholder collaboration.
