The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), through a multi-agency team, raided two premises in Kabaa town in Machakos county and recovered counterfeit alcohol worth Sh13 million.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa, while addressing the press after the ambush Saturday, said that the raided premises were in a residential area and lacked the required license to operate, thus exposing the public to health hazards.
“This is not just a crime against the economy but a direct attack on the overall health and social fabric of our communities,” said Omerikwa.
The CEO further disclosed that there were over a thousand bottles of counterfeit spirits and fake Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) stamps, saying that they also collected samples of the alcohol to be taken to a government chemist to ascertain the level of adulteration that had been done.
Omerikwa decried the harmful effects illicit alcohol brings to communities, including addiction and financial burden on families, especially on low-income earners, as well as an increase in crime rate that erodes the peace and sense of safety for the people.
However, Omerikwa highlighted some of the challenges that Nacada faces by questioning how such an illicit brew business was being operated in plain sight, yet residents never bothered to report, raising concerns on the growing gap between communities and the relevant authorities.
He called upon the public to report any suspicious activities, saying this would play a crucial role in curbing the sale and consumption of illicit alcohol and drugs that have been a menace to families and the larger society over the years.
“I want to appeal to all citizens that the multi-agency team is available 24 hours to handle all complex problems, so you should be free to report any suspicious activity,” declared the CEO.
Similar successful raids were done in Joska and Makueni county in the last two days, signifying the government’s efforts in eliminating the growing vice of illicit alcohol and illegal substances across the country.
The crackdown comes after president Dr. William Ruto recently declared plans to intensify and expedite the fight against alcohol and substance abuse as a national priority.
By Anne Kangero
