Police, KRA Pounce On Lorry Carrying 35 Containers Of Ethanol

In a significant development in the ongoing crackdown on illicit substances, authorities on Friday, May 2, intercepted a lorry suspected of trafficking illegal ethanol in Webuye, Bungoma County.

The vehicle was seized during a coordinated multi-agency operation and was found transporting 35 containers—each holding 250 litres—of a clear liquid hidden beneath cartons of milk, in what officials described as a deliberate attempt to evade detection.

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), under the leadership of CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, led the operation alongside officers from the Kenya Police Service and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa (in cap) leading an operation where 35 containers of ethanol were seized on May 2, 2025. /NACADA

“This was not merely a violation of the law—it was a calculated move that posed a serious risk to public health,” stated Dr. Omerikwa at the scene.

“We are unwavering in our pursuit of individuals involved in the production, distribution, and sale of illegal or uncustomised substances. We will also pursue the forfeiture of assets linked to these crimes under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act.”

Samples of the confiscated substance have been submitted to the Government Chemist for testing. Early investigations indicate that the ethanol may have been intended for use in the manufacture of illicit alcoholic beverages.

Dr. Omerikwa lauded the swift and coordinated response by law enforcement and regulatory agencies. “This operation underscores the power of inter-agency collaboration. I commend the vigilance and dedication of our partners in the police and the Kenya Revenue Authority,” he said.

He further called for enhanced intelligence-sharing among government bodies, emphasising that effective coordination is key to dismantling drug trafficking networks. “These criminal enterprises exploit institutional silos. We must bridge these gaps to disrupt their operations,” he added.

The public was also urged to support the fight against illicit drugs by reporting suspicious activity through NACADA’s toll-free hotline, 1192.

“Community vigilance is essential. Together, we can protect our youth and secure a healthier future for our nation,” Dr. Omerikwa said.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the source and intended destination of the intercepted shipment as NACADA and its partners intensify efforts to dismantle the networks driving Kenya’s illicit drug trade.

On Thursday, April 3, NACADA raided a large-scale chang’aa brewing den in Mwaguto Village, Kisii South Sub-County, with a staggering 55,000 litres of kangara and 500 litres of chang’aa seized.

The early morning operation resulted in the arrest of five suspects, three women and two men, as authorities dismantled what was described as a sophisticated illegal distillery.