Two individuals have been arrested following an operation in Nanyuki that resulted in the seizure of illicit brew and narcotic drugs.

In a statement posted on their X account on August 23, 2025, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed that officers from Nanyuki Police Station conducted the targeted operation within Likii Estate and Ichuga Shopping Centre in Laikipia East Sub-County.

“Police officers from Nanyuki Police Station in Laikipia East Sub-County, today conducted an intelligence-led operation within Likii Estate and Ichuga Shopping Centre,” the NPS stated.

Drug seizure

According to NPS, the operation yielded significant recoveries of both traditional illicit brew and modern narcotic substances.

“During the operation, officers recovered three litres of an illicit brew suspected to be chang’aa and 100 rolls of narcotic drugs,” police reported.

NPS further confirmed that both individuals arrested during the operation are currently being processed at Nanyuki Police Station, with the recovered items held as evidence.

“Two suspects were arrested and escorted to the station for further processing,” the NPS confirmed.

“The recovered exhibits are being held as evidence at the same facility,” police added.

Illicit alcohol crackdown

This operation comes days after the government announced the establishment of a special police unit to lead a nationwide crackdown on illicit alcohol, narcotics, and adulterated ethanol.

Speaking during the Jukwa la Usalama Nyeri event on Thursday, August 21, 2025, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed the formation of a national multi-agency team, tasked with conducting coordinated sting operations targeting manufacturers, distributors, and sellers of illicit substances across all counties.

“We have agreed at the security meeting with the IG and the CEO of NACADA that we are going to establish a special multi-agency team that will include KEBS and KRA, among other agencies, to work together to ensure compliance,” Murkomen revealed.

The Cabinet Secretary vowed to continue crackdowns until the issue is eradicated, not only in Central Kenya but also in other regions where establishments operate with illegal or no licenses.

“Where we feel the need to reinforce, the national team will be called in to support this issue of alcohol in our country,” he stated.