Over 1,700 Bottles Of Suspected Counterfeit Alcohol Seized In Nyandarua Crackdown

Detectives have seized over 1,700 bottles of suspected counterfeit alcoholic drinks during a late afternoon raid in Nyandarua North Sub-County.

The operation, which took place in the Uruku area, was led by Nicholas Kosgei, Head of Enforcement at the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).

Kosgei was accompanied by Nyandarua County NACADA Coordinator Mr. Andrew Githua and Inspector Ian Liru, who worked alongside local officers to ensure the smooth execution of the crackdown.

The team targeted a premises operating under the names Beer Wholesalers Wines and Spirits and Travellers Pub.

A 44-year-old woman, believed to be the proprietor, was arrested at the scene. A total of 1,710 bottles of assorted alcoholic drinks—each 250ml—were recovered.

Among the brands found were Tycoon, Sweet Berry, Dallas, Brandy, Jambo, and a range of soft drinks, all of which raised suspicion due to questionable packaging and labeling.

Preliminary checks suggested that the drinks could be counterfeit and potentially harmful to consumers.

All the recovered items were taken in as exhibits, and samples have since been sent to the Government Chemist for further analysis.

Speaking after the operation, Mr. Kosgei said NACADA is intensifying efforts to root out illegal alcohol from communities, especially in rural and semi-urban areas where such products often circulate unchecked.

“This operation is part of a wider national crackdown targeting illegal alcohol production and distribution. Our mission is to protect Kenyans from the dangers of unregulated and harmful substances,” he said.

The suspect is expected to be charged in court once the results from the Government Chemist are released and formal charges are prepared.

NACADA is urging members of the public to stay alert and report any suspicious alcoholic products or outlets to the nearest authorities.

The agency has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health through enforcement, awareness campaigns, and working closely with local communities.