Eight Arrested as Police Destroy 50,000 Litres of Illicit Brew in Western Kenya

Eight people were arrested in Kakamega and Vihiga counties after security agencies carried out a coordinated operation targeting illicit alcohol production.

The operation was led by Western Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamed and involved multiple agencies. Officers dismantled brewing sites in Shikumu and Kilingili locations, as well as in the villages of Lwanaswa, Kaluni and Ishieywe. Police said 50,000 litres of Kangara were destroyed, 350 litres of Chang’aa were seized, and more than 600 brewing tools were dismantled. The suspects remain in custody and are expected to be charged in court.

The crackdown followed a directive issued by President William Ruto during a meeting at State House, where he ordered security agencies to intensify efforts against illicit alcohol and drug abuse. The President announced the deployment of additional officers to the Anti-Narcotic Unit, alongside expanded training and improved logistical support.

He also directed that rehabilitation centres be established in all 47 counties, with the aim of combining enforcement with treatment for people affected by substance abuse. The government has said this approach is intended to strengthen long-term efforts to address drug-related harm.

In addition to internal operations, multi-agency teams have been deployed at five key border entry points to disrupt drug trafficking and organised criminal networks. The measures form part of the administration’s wider plan to combat narcotics and illicit brews nationwide.

The National Police Service said it is implementing the President’s directive and treating the fight against illicit alcohol and drugs as a national priority. The scale of the Kakamega and Vihiga operation highlights both the extent of illegal brewing in the region and the government’s enforcement focus.

Illicit alcohol has been linked to serious health risks, social instability and economic hardship, particularly in rural areas. Authorities say the current approach seeks to address both the supply of illegal brews and the broader impact on communities.

The suspects arrested in the operation are awaiting trial as investigations continue. Police have indicated that similar operations will be carried out in other parts of the country as part of ongoing enforcement efforts.