NANYUKI, Kenya — Police have intensified a crackdown on illicit alcohol and narcotics in Laikipia County, arresting one suspect and seizing hundreds of litres of suspected chang’aa during a targeted operation in Nanyuki.
In a statement on Monday, police said officers from Nanyuki Police Station, led by the Laikipia East Sub-County Police Commander, conducted a raid in the Majengo area and its environs as part of ongoing enforcement efforts against illegal brews.
During the operation, officers recovered 400 litres of suspected chang’aa, stored in 20 yellow plastic containers, and seized 150 packets of assorted uncustomized Super Match cigarettes, believed to have been illegally imported.
“The operation led to the arrest of one suspect and the recovery of illicit alcohol and uncustomed cigarettes,” police said, adding that the suspect was taken into custody at Nanyuki Police Station.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect is expected to be arraigned in court, while the recovered items have been secured as exhibits pending prosecution.
Police said similar operations are continuing across the county as part of a broader strategy to curb the manufacture, distribution, and sale of illicit alcohol and narcotics, which authorities have linked to rising cases of insecurity, health complications, and social harm.
Illicit brews such as chang’aa remain a persistent challenge in several parts of the country, despite repeated crackdowns.
In past incidents, consumption of illegal alcohol has resulted in deaths, permanent blindness, and long-term health complications, prompting security agencies to prioritise enforcement.
The renewed operations in Laikipia come amid sustained government efforts to dismantle supply chains for illegal alcohol and drugs, particularly in urban settlements and rural trading centres where enforcement has historically been weak.
Police appealed to members of the public to support the crackdown by sharing information on illegal brewing dens, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities.
Reports can be made at any police station or to any law enforcement officer.
The public can also reach the police through toll-free numbers 999, 911, or 112, or anonymously via #FichuaKwaDCI on 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.
Authorities said community cooperation remains critical to sustaining gains against illicit alcohol and narcotics, as enforcement agencies continue to balance public safety, health concerns, and criminal accountability.
