Over 8,000 litres of ethanol worth Sh14 million which was being smuggled into Kenya from Uganda through a porous section of the Kenya-Uganda border near Busia Town was intercepted by a multi-agency security team.
Addressing the press at Malaba Police Station, where the Isuzu lorry registration number KDB 287U is being detained, Western Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamood who led the regional and Busia County security team, expressed deep concern over the worrying trend of illegal importation of contraband goods through the border.
He also thanked security agencies and members of the public for their continued efforts.
“We have intensified border patrols to ensure we completely root- out drug trafficking and smuggling of unaccustomed goods which deprive the state the much-needed taxes,” noted Mohamood.
Mohamood lauded the officers for swift reaction to the intelligence information which led to interception of the lorry, though the driver managed to escape even as police launched a manhunt of the driver and the owner of the lorry.
“Those interested in doing business through Busia and Malaba border must comply with custom rules and pay taxes. Those who we will find using porous entries will face full force of the law,” he added.
Mohamood said the drums had been covered by 57 bags of chicken feed to conceal the consignment.
The Regional Police boss warned that ethanol is for industrial use, yet unscrupulous traders used it to make counterfeit alcohol, Chang’aa and fake spirits.
He further warned that the drink could cause blindness, pose serious long-term health risks, and even lead to death. Samples have been taken for analysis as police launch investigations.
The driver of the truck escaped using a motorcycle and police have mounted a manhunt for him and the motor cycle rider amid fears that it was destined for the Mount Kenya region.
The police boss regretted that many young lives have been compromised as a result of drug trafficking.
He cautioned police officers colluding with KRA officials and traders to allow importation of goods without proper procedures that they risk being arrested or interdicted.
The incident comes a month after Busia police Commander destroyed bhang worth Sh45 million. Samples of the substance have been taken to government chemist laboratory for analysis.
By Absalom Namwalo
