Police in Murang’a County have intensified a crackdown on illicit brews and counterfeit second-generation alcoholic drinks, resulting in the seizure of hundreds of crates and bottles of suspected illegal alcohol over the past month.
The National Police Service (NPS) said the operations have targeted manufacturers, suppliers and traders involved in the production and distribution of harmful alcoholic products across the county.
The crackdown has mainly focused on Kabati, Kenol and Kangema, areas identified by authorities among those most affected by the illicit alcohol trade.
According to the NPS, the operations have been conducted through an intelligence-led approach involving police officers and National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), with support from local community networks.
During the operations, security agencies intercepted more than 530 crates of suspected counterfeit second-generation alcoholic drinks.
Police also seized 1,550 bottles of an illicit beer identified as “Batian” and confiscated 140 litres of chang’aa.
The operations have also led to the arrest and charging of 16 individuals in connection with the illegal alcohol trade.
The NPS said the ongoing crackdown is aimed at disrupting the production, supply and sale of illicit alcoholic products and protecting communities from harmful drinks.
Authorities have urged members of the public to continue providing information on manufacturers, suppliers and traders suspected of dealing in illicit brews and counterfeit alcohol.
The police service said cooperation between law enforcement agencies and local communities had played an important role in identifying and disrupting illegal alcohol operations.
The NPS thanked residents for their support and called for continued collaboration as security agencies step up efforts to eliminate the illicit alcohol trade in Murang’a County.
Members of the public with information about illicit brews, counterfeit second-generation alcohol or other suspicious activities have been urged to report to the nearest police station.
