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On Thursday, November 7, 2024, police in Juja, Kiambu County, conducted a successful raid that resulted in a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against counterfeit alcohol.

Authorities confiscated 480 litres of industrial ethanol and 163 cartons of assorted second-generation alcohol, which were being illegally manufactured and stored in a residential house. The operation carried out in Theta Village, uncovered a hub for the illicit distillation, packaging, and distribution of these harmful substances. The police also seized a vehicle loaded with empty bottles, indicating the scale of the operation.

Kiambu County Police Commander Michael Muchiri emphasises the grave dangers posed by these counterfeit products, noting that they are “dirty, prepared in a bad way and are completely a health hazard.” The conditions under which the alcohol was being produced is far from sanitary with no adherence to proper distilling standards. This poses a significant health risk to consumers, as illicit alcohol is often mixed with harmful chemicals and substances that can lead to poisoning, blindness, and even death.

In addition to the confiscated ethanol and second-generation alcohol, the police discovered a roll of Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) stickers, which were likely used by the suspected manufacturers to evade taxes and deceive consumers into thinking the products were legitimate. The successful raid was made possible with the help of the surrounding community who provided critical information to the police. During the operation, eight suspects, including two women and six men, were arrested and are now awaiting prosecution.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the harmful use of alcohol is a significant public health problem, impacting people and societies in many ways. In Kenya, the challenge of second-generation alcohol abuse is particularly acute with many people falling victim to its dangerous effects. The police have vowed to continue their efforts to protect public health and safety, and to hold those responsible for producing and distributing counterfeit alcohol accountable.