Officers from the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), in collaboration with the police, on Monday intercepted a consignment of illicit alcohol that was being transported to Kirigiti in Kiambu County.

The multi-agency operation, led by Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) of Kiambu Municipality Caleb Nyongesa, focused on wine and spirits outlets identified through intelligence reports.

The crackdown formed part of Phase II of the Rapid Results Initiative (RRI), aimed at intensifying the fight against illicit alcohol and other assorted products.

Acting on credible tips, the team narrowed its search to several wines and spirits shops suspected of dealing in illegal liquor. Follow-up investigations led officers to additional discoveries, including other illicit products and the sale of alcohol from premises disguised as boutiques.

Speaking to the media after the operation, ACC Nyongesa confirmed that the targeted outlets had been under surveillance for some time.

“The shops have been on our radar for some time, and we have today found them with the illicit products, with most of them not even licensed to operate. We will continue with this crackdown until we get them all,” he said.

Nyongesa noted that the exercise is part of a sustained multi-agency effort to disrupt the supply chain of illicit alcohol, which poses serious health risks to consumers and undermines legitimate businesses.

He added that the operation would not stop at the seizure of the products but would also involve further investigations into the sources of the illicit liquor and those responsible for its distribution.

The joint team recovered significant quantities of the contraband alcohol, along with other unauthorized products found in the premises.

Several shops that were operating without valid licenses were identified, and the proprietors were arrested and expected to face legal action.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cleaning up the alcohol trade in Kiambu County. The Phase II RRI campaign specifically targets the production, transportation, storage, and sale of illicit alcohol as well as related products that endanger public health and safety.

Local residents and legitimate traders have welcomed the intensified enforcement, saying it will help protect consumers from dangerous substances and create a level playing field for licensed operators.

Officials urged members of the public to continue sharing information that can assist in identifying dens of illicit trade.

The crackdown is expected to continue in the coming days as NGAO officers and police intensify surveillance across the municipality and surrounding areas.

Authorities have warned that those found manufacturing, transporting, or selling illicit alcohol will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law.

By Kipkorir Felix and Grace Naishoo