In a significant operation against the illicit alcohol trade, a multi-agency team, led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), raided a chang’aa brewing facility in Mwaguto Village, Kisii South Sub-County. The operation resulted in the confiscation of over 55,000 liters of kangara and 500 liters of chang’aa, both illicit alcohols that have long been linked to numerous social issues in the region. Additionally, five suspects, three women and two men, were arrested during the early morning raid, which uncovered a sophisticated network involved in the illegal brewing of these substances.
The illicit operation was found to be set up on a four-acre piece of land, equipped with elaborate storage facilities and brewing equipment, marking the facility as a major source of illegal alcohol in the area. Authorities noted that the facility had been operating for some time, contributing significantly to the illegal alcohol trade in Kisii and surrounding regions. The scale of the operation made it one of the largest busts of its kind in recent months, signaling the authorities’ increased focus on dismantling such illegal activities.
NACADA CEO, Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, praised the operation, calling it a major win in the fight against illicit brews. He emphasized that the crackdown was part of a larger, ongoing effort to curb the widespread problem of illegal alcohol production and consumption. “This operation sends a strong message to those engaged in the illicit alcohol trade—there is no place for you in this business, and we will continue to pursue you with all available resources,” Dr. Omerikwa stated.
The operation was carried out with the cooperation of local police and administrative officers, highlighting the importance of collaboration between various agencies in tackling organized crime. Local residents in the area expressed relief and gratitude following the raid, as the brewing den had been a source of constant tension and criminal activity. Many locals reported that the facility had contributed to rising levels of alcohol abuse and related crimes in the region, including domestic violence and other forms of social decay.
Area Chief Samuel Nyabuto also praised the successful operation and called for continued vigilance to ensure that such illegal activities do not resurface. He acknowledged the positive impact the raid had on the community, particularly in reducing the availability of dangerous substances that had contributed to widespread social harm.
In addition to the arrests and confiscation of alcohol, NACADA has announced plans to initiate legal proceedings to seize the four-acre land used for the illicit brewing operation. Dr. Omerikwa stressed that the property would be treated as a crime scene and would be forfeited to the government as part of efforts to dismantle the entire network of illegal alcohol production in the area. “We are not just targeting the individuals involved in this illegal trade but also the infrastructure supporting it. This land will be returned to the state, and we will continue our efforts to close down such operations across the country,” he affirmed.
The suspects arrested in the raid are set to be arraigned in court, where they will face charges related to the production and distribution of illicit alcohol. NACADA has vowed to continue its nationwide crackdown on illegal brews, recognizing the long-term damage they cause to both individual lives and entire communities. This operation serves as a clear indication of the authority’s commitment to protecting the public from the dangers posed by unregulated, harmful substances and sending a message to other illicit brewers that the law is closing in on them.
As the crackdown continues, the authorities hope to further reduce the supply of illicit alcohol, ultimately improving public health and safety across the country.
