Two Arrested as NACADA Leads Massive Raid on Illegal Alcohol Network in Kisumu

A major breakthrough in the fight against illicit alcohol has been recorded in Kisumu County after a NACADA-led multi-agency operation destroyed more than 40,000 litres of contraband brews and arrested two suspects believed to be at the center of the illegal trade.

The raid, conducted on Tuesday in Pap Onditi, Bolo, was spearheaded by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) in collaboration with National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and a specialized unit of the Administration Police.

Acting on intelligence, the team stormed several hideouts and uncovered a vast brewing operation. Authorities seized 200 litres of ready-to-sell chang’aa, 5,000 litres of molasses, and 35,000 litres of kangara (a base ingredient for illicit brews). More than 200 drums and jerricans used in the operation were destroyed on-site, preventing the distribution of the harmful substances.

Two suspects were apprehended and are being held at Sondu Miriu Police Station for interrogation and prosecution.

NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa linked the successful operation to the government’s ongoing 100-day Rapid Results Initiative (RRI), a directive by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen aimed at intensifying the crackdown on illicit alcohol and substance abuse.

Dr. Omerikwa emphasized that the Kisumu operation reflects the effectiveness of the new strategy, which relies on intelligence, coordination, and swift enforcement.

“This successful execution underscores our unwavering commitment, in full collaboration with all security agencies, to dismantle the networks that profit from poisoning our people,” Dr. Omerikwa said. “We are sending a clear message that there will be no respite in this campaign. The 100-day clock is ticking, and we are committed to delivering rapid, tangible results to safeguard the health and social fabric of our nation.”

Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing to uncover the entire supply chain and arrest more individuals linked to the illegal trade in Kisumu and beyond.