NACADA Nets Sh16 Million Counterfeit Alcohol in Nyamira Crackdown

The war on illicit alcohol has gained fresh momentum after the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) spearheaded a multi-agency raid in Nyamira County, seizing counterfeit alcoholic drinks valued at approximately Sh16 million.

The high-impact operation, carried out in Nyaigwa Village within Nyamira Town, brought together NACADA officers, the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), and a specialized Administration Police unit.

Among the seized products were popular but unlicensed brands, including Dallas, Smart Vodka, Trigger, and Space. Authorities believe the illicit stock was destined for wide distribution across the region, making this one of Nyamira’s largest busts of the year.

During the raid, one suspect, Isaac Mutai, was arrested. Preliminary investigations indicate that Mutai is employed by a prominent businesswoman in Nyamira County who is suspected to have ties to the illegal trade. He remains in custody as detectives pursue leads to dismantle the broader supply chain behind the counterfeit network.

NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa confirmed that the raid was part of the government’s ongoing Rapid Results Initiative (RRI), launched by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to curb illicit alcohol and safeguard public health.

“This operation is a testament to our renewed commitment under the RRI to rid our communities of dangerous, counterfeit alcohol,” Dr. Omerikwa said. “Let this serve as a warning—NACADA is not relenting. We will not stop until every link in this chain is broken.”

The seized drinks have been secured as evidence and will be used in prosecuting those involved. Meanwhile, investigators are working to trace the origin of the products and arrest other players linked to the syndicate.

This latest crackdown highlights the growing threat of counterfeit alcohol in rural Kenya and sends a strong message that the government is determined to bring offenders to justice while protecting the lives and livelihoods of citizens.