Authorities in Nandi South Sub-County intercepted a consignment of illicit brew after a dramatic chase involving a motorcycle rider suspected of trafficking chang’aa.
The incident unfolded along the Serem–Kobujoi road when police officers attempted to flag down a motorbike believed to be transporting suspicious cargo. Instead of complying, the rider defied orders and sped off towards the Mugen–Kemeloi–Chepgundi route. Midway, he abandoned the motorcycle and fled on foot, leaving behind the cargo.
Upon inspection of the abandoned motorbike, officers discovered 50 sachets of chang’aa concealed in a metal box and a carton. Out of these, eight sachets were already torn. Both the illicit brew and the motorcycle were secured at Koitabut Police Post, as investigations continue to track down the suspect behind the trafficking attempt.
The dramatic chase and recovery highlight ongoing efforts to combat the illicit brew menace, which continues to pose significant health and security risks across the country. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to dismantling networks involved in the illegal trade, ensuring that dangerous substances are eliminated before reaching local consumers.
This operation in Nandi comes amid intensified nationwide crackdowns targeting illicit alcohol. Earlier in the week, police in Kahawa West, in collaboration with local administrators, recovered and destroyed 2,500 litres of chang’aa together with brewing equipment. The enforcement teams emphasized that these sustained actions are part of a broader strategy to curb the proliferation of unregulated alcohol that threatens lives and livelihoods.
In another major raid conducted on August 27, 10,000 litres of illicit brew were seized in Kangemi. Officers from the Nairobi Region led the operation, which also uncovered 50 kilogrammes of jaggery and several packets of yeast catalyst used in the fermentation process. All exhibits were secured and later destroyed, while investigations to apprehend the individuals behind the illicit business remain ongoing.
Police have assured the public that more operations will be conducted in hotspot areas to root out dealers of chang’aa and other harmful alcoholic substances. The continued seizures underscore the scale of the problem and the determination of authorities to bring offenders to justice.
The latest bust in Nandi sends a strong warning to those engaged in the trade that law enforcement remains vigilant and relentless in its fight against illicit brew.
