Police in Nandi have intensified their fight against illicit substances following a dramatic recovery of a vehicle loaded with ethanol, cannabis, and multiple fake number plates. The operation unfolded at Ndurio Trading Centre after officers on patrol intercepted a suspicious vehicle believed to be ferrying contraband.
The incident began when law enforcement officers signaled a white Toyota Harrier to stop. Instead of complying, the driver attempted a quick escape by making a U-turn. A chase ensued, forcing the suspect to abandon the vehicle before disappearing on foot. The abandoned vehicle was later escorted to Kobujoi Police Station for inspection.
A search inside the car revealed a large consignment of illicit goods. Officers discovered forty-five jerrycans, each containing 30 litres of a liquid believed to be ethanol. The total volume is estimated at over 1,300 litres, highlighting the scale of the illegal trade in the area. Alongside the ethanol, two rolls of cannabis sativa were also recovered, pointing to multiple layers of illicit activity tied to the suspect.
Investigators further uncovered three sets of number plates, a mobile phone, and a laminated smart driving licence inside the vehicle. The recovery of the fake plates suggests that the car had been altered for concealment and evasion purposes, a common tactic among criminal networks transporting illegal substances across regions.
The suspect, who fled the scene during the chase, is currently being pursued. Authorities have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to track him down so that he can face justice. Abandoning vehicles during pursuits has become a recurring tactic for individuals engaged in the illegal ethanol trade, but law enforcement remains confident that continued vigilance will close in on offenders.
Officials have also highlighted the crucial role of public cooperation in the fight against illicit liquor and narcotics. Intelligence from community members was key to the successful interception, underscoring the importance of collaboration between residents and security agencies. Police have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding communities, promising to intensify crackdowns and ensure that criminal elements exploiting loopholes are brought to book.
This operation marks yet another step in the ongoing battle against the proliferation of illicit brews and related crimes, which remain a threat to public safety and health across the country.
