THIKA, Kenya — Seven suspects have been arrested after a multi-agency security operation in Thika West Sub-County led to the seizure of 13,200 litres of ethanol, thousands of packets of suspected counterfeit cigarettes and two lorries believed to have been used to transport the illegal consignment.
The intelligence-led operation was conducted in Umoja area, where officers raided a compound suspected of being used as a storage and distribution hub for illicit goods.
During the operation, investigators recovered 66 drums, each with a capacity of 200 litres, containing ethanol, bringing the total volume seized to 13,200 litres.
Officers also discovered 17,640 packets of suspected counterfeit Pall Mall cigarettes concealed beneath animal hides inside one of the lorries parked within the compound.
Authorities impounded the two lorries believed to have transported the ethanol and counterfeit tobacco products.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said all recovered items have been secured as exhibits as investigators work to establish the source of the ethanol, the authenticity of the cigarettes and the wider criminal network behind the operation.
The seven suspects arrested were identified as Isaack Muthee, Lenkai Olemelei, Simon Ndung’u, Paul Mwangi, Stephen Mbugua, Julius Mutuku and Nicolete Lodway.
They remain in police custody pending processing and arraignment.
Investigators are expected to examine the origin and intended destination of the seized products as part of efforts to dismantle illegal trade networks linked to counterfeit goods and illicit alcohol.
The DCI said it remains committed to disrupting criminal enterprises involved in illegal trade, noting that such activities pose significant risks to public health, undermine legitimate businesses, facilitate organised crime and deprive the government of tax revenue.
Investigations are ongoing.