Uasin Gishu Authorities Seize Stolen High-End Liquor Worth Over Ksh 3 Million in Major Crackdown
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has taken over the case and is conducting thorough investigations to determine whether the confiscated high-end liquor is part of a larger consignment reported stolen in Nakuru County,
Koiya Arap Maiyo, the Uasin Gishu County Director of the Alcoholics Control Board, addressing the media at the county headquarters
The Uasin Gishu County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board seized suspected stolen high-end liquor valued at over Ksh 3 million on Saturday. The liquor was discovered stashed in an abandoned farmhouse in Soy Sub-County. During a press briefing at the county headquarters, Koiya Arap Maiyo, the director of the board, detailed the operation, stating that over 300 cartons of Viceroy and 4th Street alcohol brands were impounded by a multi-agency security team. This operation followed a tip-off from vigilant members of the public and the National Government Administration Officers (Ngao).
“We extend our gratitude to the members of the public for providing crucial information to the local administration and county government officials about the suspicious offloading of this consignment,” said Maiyo. “It’s highly unusual for such high-value liquor to be found in a village where illicit brews are prevalent. This raises significant suspicion regarding the origin and intended distribution of these alcoholic products.”
Maiyo underscored the importance of public cooperation in combating illegal activities, especially those involving contraband and illicit brews, which pose health risks and undermine legitimate businesses. “The presence of such high-value liquor in a rural setting is concerning and points to a sophisticated racket operating beyond our borders,” he added.
Assistant County Commissioner for Soy Division, Waweru Kihara, also addressed the media, expressing appreciation for the coordinated efforts between various national and county government agencies that led to the successful operation and arrest of two suspects linked to the racket. “The ongoing crackdown on illicit brews and contraband liquor is a key priority for us,” said Kihara. “We urge the community to continue providing valuable information to help in the fight against illegal trade, which not only endangers lives but also affects the local economy and social fabric.”
Kihara highlighted that the crackdown is not a one-time event but a sustained effort to root out illegal alcohol distribution networks and ensure public safety. “We are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our citizens, free from the dangers posed by illicit brews and counterfeit alcohol,” he noted.
The operation comes amid heightened concerns over the proliferation of illegal alcohol and contraband goods in the region, which have led to numerous health issues and fatalities in the past. The seized liquor, believed to have been stolen, has now become a focal point of a broader investigation.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has taken over the case and is conducting thorough investigations to determine whether the confiscated high-end liquor is part of a larger consignment reported stolen in Nakuru County, valued at over Ksh 10 million. DCI officials are keen on unearthing the entire network behind the theft and distribution of stolen and illegal alcoholic products.
“This discovery could be a significant breakthrough in dismantling a larger syndicate involved in the theft and distribution of high-end liquors,” said a senior DCI official. “We are following leads that could potentially link this seizure to a major criminal enterprise operating across multiple counties.”
The investigation will also explore possible links between local and regional actors in the illegal liquor trade, as well as any potential corruption or collusion among law enforcement or government officials that may have facilitated the operation of this racket. The authorities have vowed to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice and the eradication of illegal alcohol trade in the region.
As the investigation unfolds, the Uasin Gishu County government and law enforcement agencies continue to call on residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could jeopardize public safety or violate local laws. The ongoing efforts reflect a broader commitment to upholding law and order and safeguarding the health and well-being of all citizens.
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