In a bold crackdown on illegal activities, Teso South law enforcement officers have intercepted 12,750 litres of uncustomed ethanol being ferried through Busia County. This comes just two days after a previous seizure of 3,330 litres of ethanol stored in jerrycans within the same area.
The latest haul, concealed under ballast in a trailer, was uncovered during an intelligence-led operation in the Angorom location of Adungosi. Acting on a tip-off, officers intercepted the trailer and arrested the driver, 56-year-old Stephen Kariuki. Upon inspection at Adungosi Police Station, 51 drums, each containing 250 litres of uncustomed ethanol, were recovered.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) commended the success of the operation, attributing it to enhanced community policing. The DCI acknowledged the critical role played by members of the public who provided credible information, helping to thwart smuggling operations in the region.
“Such proactive collaboration between law enforcement and the public significantly boosts security and ensures a safer neighbourhood,” a DCI representative noted.
The suspect is currently in police custody as investigations continue. Law enforcement is determined to crack down on smuggling activities, especially along porous borders.
DCI’s Role in Combating Illicit Trade
The DCI has intensified efforts to curb the illegal movement of goods, especially those crossing the border into Kenya. Uncustomed goods such as ethanol pose risks to public safety and rob the government of critical revenue. By leveraging intelligence and public cooperation, the DCI has made significant strides in combating smuggling syndicates.
This latest seizure underscores the importance of vigilance and public involvement in curbing illicit trade. Members of the public are urged to continue reporting suspicious activities to the DCI and other law enforcement agencies.
