35 containers of illegal ethanol seized in Bungoma
A joint multi-agency operation ensured success with a vehicle carrying 35 containers each holding 250 litres of clear liquid was nabbed by the officers
Police and the National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) have seized illegal ethanol in Webuye, Bungoma County in a breakthrough in the war against illicit substances.
A joint multi-agency operation ensured success with a vehicle carrying 35 containers each holding 250 litres of clear liquid was nabbed by the officers. The containers were well sealed and concealed under cartons of milk in an apparent attempt to deceive law enforcement who acted on a tip-off.
NACADA CEO Dr Anthony Omerikwa warned that anybody involved in illegal manufacture or distribution of substances that had not met requirements of quality will be penalised.
“This was not just an attempt to break the law; it was an intentional move to endanger lives,” stated Dr Omerikwa. “We will not relent in pursuing those involved in the manufacture, trafficking and sale of illegal or uncustomised substances. Their assets will be traced and seized under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering framework.”
Samples from the seized content already got sent to the Government Chemist for analysis. Preliminary investigations suggest the ethanol was being trafficked for possible utility in the manufacturing of illicit brew.
Omerikwa has commended the swift action and coordination by the local police command and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), stating; “This operation that was successful is proof that inter-agency collaboration is crucial and achievable. I want to applaud our partners in the Police and KRA for their vigilance and commitment to public safety.”
He further emphasised the need for enhanced intelligence sharing across government agencies.
“More seizures and apprehensions are possible if we break silos and pool our efforts. The networks fueling this trade thrive on communication gaps. We must close them,” Dr Omerikwa said.
He urged the public to be part of the fight against illicit trade and be part of the fight by reporting suspicious activity anonymously through NACADA’s toll-free hotline 1192. “Community support is crucial. Let us protect our youth and safeguard the future,” he said.
Investigations are ongoing to trace the origins and intended destination of the intercepted substance as NACADA and its partners ramp up efforts to dismantle the networks behind Kenya’s illicit drug trade.
