In a major crackdown on the illicit alcohol trade in the Lower Eastern region, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has seized counterfeit alcohol worth approximately KSh5 million and arrested a well-known local businessman, alleged to be behind the operation, which was located just metres from a learning institution.
The Tuesday, March 3, 2026 operation targeted a bar and wines and spirits outlet owned by a businessman who also serves as Chairman of the Kabati Business Community.
His arrest, together with that of three employees, has stirred concern among residents, exposing the extent to which the illegal alcohol trade is embedded within local networks.
Speaking to the press after the raid, NACADA CEO Dr Anthony Omerikwa said the premises were operating in clear violation of the law, as they were situated less than 100 metres from Kauwi Senior School. This contravenes the 300-metre rule, which bars alcohol outlets from operating within 300 metres of educational institutions.
“It is immoral and unacceptable for alcohol dispensing outlets and storage facilities to operate this close to learning institutions because of the grave risk posed to our children,” Dr Omerikwa stated.
“Recent statistics show the Prevalence rate for drug use in the country stands at 7 years. When you have children as young as seven years old being initiated into substance abuse, and you situate these dens near their schools, you are directly attacking the future of this nation.”
During the operation, authorities confiscated more than 900 cartons of assorted counterfeit spirit brands and over 250 crates of suspected fake alcohol packaged in 500ml beer bottles. Preliminary findings indicated that all the seized products bore counterfeit Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) stamps — a common indicator of tax evasion and potential health risks to consumers.
NACADA Exposes Deep-Rooted Illicit Alcohol Networks
The NACADA boss praised the intelligence-led strategy that enabled the successful raid, but noted that the suspect’s leadership role within the business community underscores the complexity of dismantling such networks.
“The fact that this notorious individual is the Chairman of the Kabati business community highlights the challenges we face. These are not just petty traders; these are influential people who use their positions to shield illegal activities,” he added.
Residents who assembled at the scene welcomed the enforcement action, citing the harmful impact of widespread illicit alcohol consumption in the area, including health complications and family instability.
“We are losing our young men to this poison. These businessmen have been operating with impunity for too long. We thank NACADA for finally stepping in,” one resident said.
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The multi-agency operation, involving officers from the National Police Service, secured and transported the confiscated goods for further verification and analysis.
The four suspects remain in custody pending arraignment, with authorities signalling that asset recovery proceedings will be initiated to ensure those responsible do not benefit from illegal trade.
By Joseph Mambili
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