The crackdown on illegal alcohol trade has intensified after police officers seized 139 bottles of illicit brew disguised as popular liquor brands in Uasin Gishu County, dealing a major blow to the underground alcohol network.
According to a statement shared by the Kenya Police Service (KPS) on X on January 7, 2026, the counterfeit alcohol was recovered during coordinated operations targeting bars suspected of selling illegal brews. The illicit liquor had been deceptively packaged in Best Gin and Smart Vodka bottles, a tactic commonly used to mislead consumers and evade law enforcement.
The operation led to the recovery of the illegal alcohol from three bars within the county, while four suspects were arrested and are currently in police custody awaiting further legal action. Authorities say investigations are ongoing to establish the source of the counterfeit alcohol and identify other individuals involved in the supply chain.
Police warned that illicit brews pose a serious public health risk, often containing harmful substances that can lead to severe illness, blindness, or death. The Kenya Police Service reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens and announced that the campaign against illegal brews is being scaled up nationwide.
Residents have been urged to report suspicious alcohol outlets as security agencies tighten surveillance and enforcement to curb the deadly trade.
