NACADA seizes counterfeit alcohol worth US$123.8K in Nyamira County crackdown 

KENYA – The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has confiscated counterfeit alcoholic drinks valued at approximately Kes 16 million in a major operation in Nyamira County.  

The raid, conducted in Nyaigwa Village within Nyamira Town, involved a coordinated effort between NACADA, the National Police Service (NPS), the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), and a specialized unit from the Administration Police. 

Among the seized items were unlicensed brands including Dallas, Smart Vodka, Trigger and Space, suspected to be destined for wide-scale distribution in the region. Authorities described the operation as one of the largest anti-counterfeit actions in the county this year. 

NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa confirmed the raid formed part of a nationwide Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) launched by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.  

The initiative aims to dismantle networks involved in the production and sale of illicit alcohol while protecting public health. 

“This operation demonstrates our renewed commitment under the RRI to rid our communities of dangerous, counterfeit alcohol,” Dr. Omerikwa stated. He warned individuals engaged in the illegal trade that NACADA would not relent until every link of the supply chain is dismantled. 

The seized beverages have been secured as evidence for upcoming prosecutions. Investigators are also pursuing leads to trace the origin of the illicit products and arrest other individuals connected to the racket. 

Kenya faces a growing challenge from illicit alcohol, particularly in rural areas. A report by the Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK) revealed illegal alcohol now accounts for 60% of total consumption nationwide, a 27% increase since 2022. The report also highlighted a 68% surge in fiscal losses tied to the illicit trade since 2022. 

The government’s 100-day Rapid Results Initiative is prioritizing counties with high incidences of illicit alcohol, including Murang’a and Kiambu.  

Manufacturers found guilty of adulteration risk permanent closure and revocation of their licenses as the crackdown intensifies. 

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