NACADA Seizes Counterfeit Alcohol Worth KSh 3 Million in Narok County Crackdown
As the enforcement continues, NACADA has appealed to the public for vigilance and cooperation with government agencies in eradicating fake alcoholic drinks and saving lives throughout the country.
speaking to reporters after the operation, NACADA's Deputy Director of Corporate Affairs Simon Mwangi warned that counterfeit liquor poses serious health risks to consumers. Photo/Courtesy.
By Ruth Sang
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse has seized suspected counterfeit alcohol worth close to KSh 3 million after a multi-agency operation coordinated in Narok County. The operation is part of ongoing national efforts to combat the production and distribution of illicit alcohol, particularly ahead of the festive season when consumption tends to rise.
According to officials from NACADA, more than 200 cartons of the alcoholic products were recovered during the raid. Preliminary inspections revealed that fake Kenya Revenue Authority excise stamps were affixed on the seized items, which raises many questions over tax evasion, consumer safety, and alcohol supply chain integrity.
Speaking to reporters after the operation, NACADA’s Deputy Director of Corporate Affairs Simon Mwangi warned that counterfeit liquor poses serious health risks to consumers. He said that such liquor products are usually manufactured in unhygienic conditions using unregulated and sometimes toxic ingredients, making them unfit for human consumption.
“Illicit alcohol is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe health complications, including poisoning, organ failure, and even death. Members of the public must remain vigilant, especially during the festive season when demand for alcoholic beverages increases,” Mwangi said.
He said that NACADA, in collaboration with other arms of the government, will heighten patrols and enforcement activities in the entire nation to break the illegal alcohol networks. Mwangi said the authority was committed to safeguarding public health and ensuring that alcohol sold in the market complies with safety and regulatory requirements.
Narok Central Deputy County Commissioner Kennedy Mwangoma hailed the role played by the local community during the successful operation. He said information from residents was instrumental in identifying the illegal stock and coordinating the crackdown with enforcement agencies.
Mwangome also called on the public to actively engage in ridding the country of counterfeit alcohol through informed tips to relevant authorities. He further advised that consumers always check on the authenticity of an alcoholic product before buying or consuming.
“To protect your health, always ensure that the liquor you purchase is genuine. The Soma Lebo mobile application is a convenient and helpful tool for consumers to verify KRA excise stamps and ensure that the product is authentic,” Mwangome said.
The sting operation also involved officers from NACADA, the National Police Service, and DCI-an indication of the government’s multi-agency approach to dealing with the illicit alcohol trade. The authorities have asserted, time and again, that investigations continue and that the culprits will face the full force of the law. As the enforcement continues, NACADA has appealed to the public for vigilance and cooperation with government agencies in eradicating fake alcoholic drinks and saving lives throughout the country.
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