The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has dismantled what officials describe as one of Naivasha’s largest and most sophisticated alcohol counterfeiting networks following a coordinated weekend operation.
The crackdown, executed across three establishments within the town, brought together officers from NACADA, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the National Police Service (NPS) and the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO).
The targeted outlets were under suspicion for manufacturing, distributing and selling counterfeit alcoholic beverages believed to pose serious health risks to consumers.
During the operation, three suspects were arrested and are expected to face charges in court.
Authorities also seized assorted products suspected to be counterfeit. Samples from the haul have been forwarded to the Government Chemist for toxicological analysis.
The enforcement action follows persistent complaints from Naivasha residents over the surge in illicit and poisonous alcohol in the local market.
According to NACADA, Naivasha’s strategic location as a gateway to the Rift Valley, its proximity to Nairobi and its status as a major tourist hub make it a prime conduit for illegal alcohol distribution.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa said the crackdown aligns with national directives following the recent launch of the Jukwaa la Usalama report by President William Ruto, which underscored alcohol and drug abuse as a major threat to community safety.
“This enforcement action is a direct response to the concerns raised at the highest level and from the public,” said Dr. Omerikwa.
“Our reports indicate that bar owners in these areas are engaged in the illegal and deadly practice of mixing ethanol for consumption, often mislabeling fake content and selling it in quantities as low as 10ml, which is a direct violation of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act.”
He added that with the festive season approaching, NACADA has intensified nationwide crackdowns to curb the circulation of adulterated and illegal substances.
“The Authority has heightened operations to ensure our children are not exposed to the dangers of illicit and counterfeit substances,” he said.
Dr. Omerikwa also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant.
“With children and youth at home for the holidays, adults must act as responsible role models. It is our collective duty to shield the younger generation from exposure and the lure of substance use. The choices we make directly influence theirs.”
NACADA is calling on the public to report alcohol and drug abuse-related cases through its toll-free hotline, 1192, assuring swift action as part of its ongoing efforts to protect communities from the dangers of substance abuse.
