A major crackdown on illicit alcohol and drug trade was recently carried out in Narok County, spearheaded by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA). The operation, led by NACADA Head of Enforcement Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Nicholas Kosgey, targeted notorious hotspots in the Topoti/Emorogi and Naikara markets.
In collaboration with the National Police Service (NPS) and National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), enforcement teams raided multiple suspected brewing dens in Topoti/Emorogi, destroying over 5,000 litres of the illegal brew Kangara and seizing five kilograms of bhang. However, no arrests were made as suspects fled before officers arrived.
At Naikara Market, the team conducted compliance checks on alcohol outlets and destroyed 60 litres of Busaa, another illegal local brew. Intelligence reports also pointed to counterfeit alcohol products suspected to have been smuggled in from Tanzania.
Authorities praised the operation as a stern warning to those involved in the illicit trade. SSP Kosgey stated that this was only the beginning of a series of intensified crackdowns, with plans to involve more agencies such as the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), and public health departments.
Residents welcomed the operation, saying the widespread availability of illegal brews had worsened crime, health problems, and youth delinquency. NACADA reaffirmed its commitment to fighting substance abuse, particularly in high-risk regions like Narok.
“Those engaging in this illegal trade should know that their days are numbered,” warned Kosgey.
