Nairobi, Kenya — In a significant operation against the illicit alcohol trade, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) intercepted a large shipment of smuggled ethanol. The operation, which took place on March 29, 2026, resulted in the recovery of 27 jerricans containing around 810 litres of suspected illicit ethanol. The seizure was the result of intelligence leading NACADA officers, in collaboration with Langas Police Station, to track down a suspect vehicle originating from Kapsabet. The substance is believed to be a key ingredient in the production of counterfeit and substandard alcoholic beverages, known as second-generation alcohol.
NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa emphasized the growing complexity of illegal alcohol networks that exploit porous borders and corruption to evade taxation and regulation. “This illicitly obtained and smuggled ethanol is widely used to produce deadly alcoholic drinks, “Dr.
Omerikwa. “These networks are not only depriving the government of significant revenue but also endangering public health.”The seized ethanol is estimated to have a street value of about KSh 1,500 per litre, totaling approximately KSh 1.
2 million.
Dr. Omerikwa added that NACADA, in partnership with other security agencies, will continue with intensified efforts to dismantle illegal alcohol syndicates. All confiscated assets will be forfeited to the state.
Two suspects were arrested during the operation and are scheduled to appear in court on March 30, 2026. Investigations into the illicit alcohol trade network are ongoing.
Source: National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA)
