The National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has arrested some suspects for brewing and supplying illicit liquor in Mbeu Village, Tigania West in Meru.
The arrest by Nacada officers and police officers was carried out amid efforts to enforce the Authority’s activities in Meru County.
During the raid, officers
recovered 200 litres of suspected illicit brew at the suspect's compound.
Additionally, empty sachets of instant yeast, sugar, molasses, and other ingredients believed to be used in manufacturing the illegal liquor were seized.
In a separate operation, Nacada enforcement officers uncovered a brewery in Majengo estate of Meru town.
Nacada said the well-concealed facility was well-equipped with an assortment of distilling apparatus, pointing to large-scale production and distribution of illicit alcohol (chang’aa).
It added that the discovery highlights the growing sophistication of illicit brewers and the challenges facing authorities in addressing the menace.
All suspects involved in the two operations were taken into custody and booked at Meru Police Station, where they await further police action.
Nacada reaffirmed its collaboration with law enforcement agencies to ensure thorough investigations and the prosecution of individuals engaging in the illegal trade.
The action is part of the Authority’s commitment to curbing the availability and consumption of harmful, unregulated alcoholic substances in Kenya, which pose serious health risks and undermine societal well-being.
Speaking after the operation, Nacada Head of Enforcement Superintendent of Police Nicholas Kosgey emphasised the importance of community cooperation in addressing the challenge.
"We urge members of the public to continue providing information that can help us identify and dismantle these illegal operations. Together, we can protect our communities from the harmful effects of illicit brews," he said.
Nacada assured that it will remain steadfast in its mission to promote a drug-free society and safeguard the health of all Kenyans.
The Authority encouraged Kenyans to report suspicious activities through the toll-free helpline, 1192.
