A coordinated multi-agency operation has struck a significant blow to the illegal alcohol trade in Kenya, seizing counterfeit liquor and equipment worth millions of shillings. The crackdown, led by Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) enforcement officers, Maua Police Station officers, members of the Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK), and local administrators, targeted regions in Meru, Machakos, and Kiambu counties, uncovering large-scale tax evasion schemes.
Major Seizure in Meru
In one of the largest operations, the team confiscated illicit liquor valued at KShs. 6.9 million in a private residence in Ikuru, Maua Town, Meru County. The operation unearthed 256 cartons of Sweet Berry Vodka, 815 cartons of Dallas Brandy, 144 cartons of Power Vodka, and 156 cartons of Smart Vodka, all bearing counterfeit excise stamps. Each carton contained 20 bottles of 250ml.
The residence was designated a crime scene, while the seized items were transferred to a secure warehouse for further investigation. Authorities are pursuing the main suspects behind the operation.
Counterfeit Alcohol in Machakos
In Tala, Matungulu Sub-County, Machakos County, a similar operation recovered illicit alcohol worth KShs. 300,000 from a bar in the Masokini area. The products included 74 cartons of Flying Horse Gin, three cartons of Dallas Gin, 36 cartons of Trace Vodka, and three cartons of Perfect Vodka. As in Meru, the contraband was stored in a warehouse pending investigations. The suspects fled upon the arrival of enforcement officers.
Discovery in Kiambu
Another significant bust occurred in Thika, Kiambu County, where authorities seized spirits and counterfeit excise stamps valued at KShs. 405,136 in Mang’u. Additionally, an illegal distillery operating from a private residence in Kiamumbi yielded 130 liquor bottles and 836 counterfeit excise stamps, with a tax implication of KShs. 98,000.
Nationwide Impact of the Crackdown
Over the past three months, the ongoing operations have exposed an elaborate network of tax evasion in Kenya’s liquor trade. Investigations have led to the seizure of multimillion-shilling illegal distillery equipment, thousands of cartons of counterfeit alcohol, and smuggled ethanol. Highlights include:
- Discovery of three illegal distilleries.
- Confiscation of 1,000 cartons of second-generation counterfeit alcohol brands.
- Recovery of 56,000 liters of ethanol.
- Seizure of 60,000 pieces of counterfeit excise stamps.
Targeting the Tax Evasion Network
The KRA, working alongside law enforcement agencies, has made significant progress in disrupting these illegal activities. The network involves smuggling ethanol, producing counterfeit excise stamps, packaging fake alcoholic brands, and distributing these products across the country.
“This is a concerted effort to protect revenue and public health,” stated a KRA official. The counterfeit alcohol trade not only cheats the government of taxes but also endangers consumers with potentially harmful substances.
Strengthening Enforcement
The success of the operations underscores the effectiveness of a multi-agency approach in tackling organized crime. However, authorities stress the importance of community cooperation in reporting suspicious activities.
The KRA has reiterated its commitment to intensifying surveillance and enforcing tax compliance to eliminate illegal trade. With millions already seized and investigations ongoing, the crackdown serves as a stern warning to those engaging in illicit alcohol production and distribution.
This sustained effort demonstrates Kenya’s resolve to protect its revenue base and ensure public safety. As the authorities close in on the suspects, the country looks forward to dismantling this network and restoring integrity to the alcohol trade.
