Police officers in Koibatek, Baringo County, have arrested a suspect and impounded a vehicle loaded with uncustomed ethanol after a dramatic chase. The incident occurred in the Torongo area following a coordinated intelligence-led operation.
According to police reports, officers had received actionable intelligence about a vehicle suspected of transporting contraband. When the driver was flagged down at a road checkpoint, he defied orders, made a sudden U-turn, and attempted to flee. Quick response by the officers, supported by vigilant members of the public, enabled them to intercept the vehicle and arrest the driver.
Upon searching the vehicle, officers discovered 42 jerrycans, each with a capacity of 25 litres, containing ethanol suspected to have been smuggled into the country without customs clearance. The driver was taken into custody and is expected to be arraigned in court once investigations and processing are completed. The vehicle was towed to Eldama Ravine Police Station as part of the ongoing probe.
Authorities noted that the cooperation of members of the public played a key role in successfully intercepting the contraband. They urged citizens to remain alert and continue working closely with law enforcement agencies in the fight against smuggling and illegal trade.
This incident adds to a growing list of ethanol-related seizures in recent weeks. In a separate case earlier this month, officers in Nandi County recovered a vehicle loaded with ethanol, cannabis, and multiple fake number plates after a chase at Ndurio Trading Centre. The abandoned vehicle was later impounded, and exhibits including 45 jerrycans of suspected ethanol, cannabis rolls, three sets of number plates, a mobile phone, and a laminated smart driving licence were secured.
While one suspect managed to escape during the Nandi operation, police have confirmed that a manhunt is underway to ensure he is brought to justice. These back-to-back incidents highlight the persistence of smuggling cartels and the need for heightened vigilance in hotspot regions across the country.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to intensify surveillance and enforce strict action against individuals and networks engaged in smuggling activities. They have also emphasized the importance of public collaboration in disrupting illegal trade, which not only undermines national revenue collection but also poses safety risks to communities.
