The intensifying war against illicit alcohol has seen a significant breakthrough with a recent dawn raid in Ruring’u, Nyeri County, leading to the seizure of counterfeit liquor valued at Sh17.5 million. This extensive operation, spearheaded by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) in collaboration with multi-agency enforcement units, culminated in the arrest of a key suspect, Lazaro Mengo Ndung’u. The crackdown specifically targeted Zidane Wines and Spirits, a premises identified as a central hub for contraband alcohol distribution, signaling a direct assault on the networks enabling such illegal activities.

During the meticulous raid, officers recovered a substantial haul of illicit products intended for public consumption. Among the confiscated items were specific quantities including nine cartons of Sweet Berry Vodka, eight cartons of Dallas Gin, 36 cartons of Trace Vodka, and 18 crates of Jambo Ice liquor. Additionally, 125 litres of ethanol were seized, along with three crates of Viena Ice, 12 crates of Diamond Ice, and 10 cartons of Best Classic. A crucial discovery was the presence of fake Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) stamps, allegedly used to deceptively legitimize the counterfeit goods, underscoring the sophisticated nature of these illicit operations.

Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, the Chief Executive Officer of NACADA, highlighted the critical importance of Ndung’u's arrest. He pointed out that Ndung’u is a repeat offender, currently facing three pending court cases related to the production and distribution of counterfeit alcohol. Dr. Omerikwa delivered a stern warning to anyone involved in this dangerous trade, asserting, “This arrest should serve as a clear warning to all who profit from poisoning our communities. Lazaro has repeatedly attempted to circumvent justice, but his time has run out. Anyone involved in this illicit trade should know their day in court is coming.” He further affirmed the government's unwavering commitment to protecting citizens from hazardous products and rigorously enforcing existing laws.

This heightened enforcement activity is a direct response to a directive issued by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who recently launched a 100-Day Rapid Results Initiative aimed at eradicating illicit alcohol across the nation. Omerikwa noted that operations have been significantly scaled up since the directive's implementation, demonstrating immediate action. Furthermore, these concerted efforts are bolstering the ongoing enforcement of the newly introduced National Alcohol Policy 2025. This comprehensive policy advocates for stricter regulations, enhanced enforcement mechanisms, and stronger consumer protection measures against unsafe alcoholic beverages, aligning with the government's broader public safety agenda.

Officials have confirmed that all confiscated products will undergo detailed laboratory analysis as investigations proceed, prior to formal charges being brought against the suspect. This major seizure in Nyeri serves as a stark reminder of the dual threat posed by counterfeit alcohol: severe public health risks to consumers and substantial revenue losses to the state. The government's escalating efforts are unequivocally aimed at dismantling these harmful illicit trade networks nationwide, reinforcing both public safety and economic integrity.