Police officers in Eldoret have seized 500 litres of illicit liquor following a successful operation that targeted distributors of chang’aa in the area.
The operation was mounted after officers on patrol received a timely tip-off about a vehicle suspected to be ferrying the illicit brew. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, a team of officers, led by the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Eldoret Police Station, intercepted a Toyota Corolla in the Asis area of the city.
Upon searching the vehicle, officers discovered a massive consignment of chang’aa, amounting to 500 litres, carefully packed in polythene pouches and plastic bottles. The vehicle was immediately secured, and the individuals found in possession of the illegal cargo were escorted to Eldoret Police Station for further processing as investigations continue.
Authorities highlighted that the seizure forms part of a broader nationwide crackdown on illicit brews, a trade that has raised major health and security concerns in various communities. The harmful nature of chang’aa and other unregulated alcoholic substances has long been linked to severe health complications, including blindness, organ damage, and in extreme cases, death. Beyond the health risks, security agencies have also associated illicit liquor trade with rising crime levels, making it a key focus of ongoing enforcement operations.
Security agencies have, in recent months, intensified joint efforts aimed at dismantling the networks behind the manufacture and distribution of illicit alcohol. Such operations are not only targeting end-distributors but also tracing the supply chain back to manufacturers who continue to thrive in the black market.
The latest recovery in Eldoret underscores the authorities’ commitment to safeguarding public health and safety by keeping harmful substances off the streets. The police reiterated their appeal to the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information that can aid in disrupting the illegal trade.
The crackdown on illicit brews is expected to continue across the country, with more operations lined up to ensure compliance and reduce the risks posed by these dangerous substances. As authorities maintain their hardline stance, the public has been urged to avoid consuming unregulated alcohol and support the collective effort to protect lives.
