In an operation conducted in Ngurubani town, Mwea East, Kirinyaga, local police have confiscated 240 cartons of suspected counterfeit alcohol and fake Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) stamps from a rented residence.
The operation uncovered a clandestine operation involving 260 liters of ethanol stored in 13 containers, two pressing machines, a roll of KRA stickers, 5,956 bottles, and three bags filled with assorted bottles.
The seized alcoholic beverages were discovered to be repackaged in recycled bottles and resealed for illegal distribution.
The Kirinyaga police commander, Reuben Muli, highlighted that this intervention was initiated based on a tip-off from the vigilant public.
Muli emphasized the need to prevent residential properties from being transformed into hubs for illicit liquor production.
He expressed concern over the deceptive nature of such operations, stressing the importance of adhering to legal procedures in engaging in these activities.
The crackdown on counterfeit liquor production aims to hold anyone found guilty accountable and promote lawful business practices.
The police commander further reported significant progress in the fight against this illicit trade, stating that they are approaching 100% eradication.
The property owner expressed shock at the discovery, as the tenant had apparently led a Christian upbringing.
All confiscated items, including the fake liquor and related materials, were secured at the Wanguru police station.
