NACADA seizes counterfeit spirits worth Ksh5.28 million in Kitengela crackdown
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The intelligence-led raid, conducted at around 11 am targeted the Scotland Wines and Spirits outlet owned by Mr. Antony Gakuo. The multi-agency operation was carried out in collaboration with officers from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the National Police Service (NPS).
Following the suspect’s arrest, he led the officers to a hidden storage container within the town, where an industrial-scale cache of counterfeit spirits was uncovered.
The haul included 528 boxes of assorted popular brands — 230 boxes of Trace Vodka, 107 of Dalas Brandy, 44 of Supa Vodka, 22 of Rider Vodka, 85 of Triger Gin, and 12 of Tiger Vodka. Each box contained 20 bottles of 250ml, pointing to a well-organized distribution network aimed at flooding the market with substandard and potentially dangerous products.
The consignment was taken into custody by KRA enforcement officers and transported to the KRA yard in Nairobi for further investigations and subsequent destruction. Samples were also collected by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) for laboratory testing to verify authenticity and assess health risks.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr Anthony Omerikwa lauded the success of the operation, noting that it forms part of the ongoing Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) directed by the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kipchumba Murkomen.
“This successful operation in Kitengela, now on the 70th day of the Rapid Results Initiative, is a clear testament to our sustained resolve,” said Dr Omerikwa. “Under the firm guidance of CS Murkomen, the RRI has strengthened our multi-agency collaboration, resulting in impactful actions that protect our communities.”
Issuing a stern warning to those engaged in the illicit trade, Dr. Omerikwa added:
“To all merchants of death profiting from counterfeit alcohol and drugs — your days are numbered. NACADA will find you, pursue you, and ensure you face the full force of the law. This seizure is just the beginning.”
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