The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has seized suspected counterfeit alcoholic beverages valued at Ksh7.6 million during a multi-agency operation in Eldoret Town.

The operation forms part of a wider national crackdown on illicit alcohol and drug abuse.

The inspection took place at a residential premises in Pioneer Estate, Eldoret, where ACA enforcement officers, working with other government agencies, recovered a total of 1,525 cartons of suspected fake alcohol. This included 1,103 cartons of Best Gin and 422 cartons of Best Brandy, with each carton containing 20 bottles of 250ml.

The seized products were logged in an official inventory and moved to the ACA Eldoret depot for safe custody while investigations continue. Authorities arrested a the person in connection with the operation. He has since been released on police cash bail pending the conclusion of the investigation.

Commenting on the seizure, Yusuf Osman, ACA Director of Enforcement, said the operation demonstrates the authority’s firm approach to tackling counterfeit trade.

“Suspected counterfeit alcohol poses a serious risk to public health and safety,” Osman said.

Crackdown targets fake alcohol

Peter Wanjala, ACA Regional Manager in Eldoret, said the operation is part of a broader nationwide campaign targeting illicit alcohol and drug abuse. He added that the authority is intensifying enforcement activities to protect communities and disrupt illegal storage and distribution networks.

“This seizure is part of an ongoing nationwide campaign against illicit alcohol and drug abuse. We are intensifying operations across the region to protect communities from harmful products and to disrupt illegal storage and distribution points,” Wanjala said.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and work closely with enforcement agencies to report suspicious activities.

“We call upon members of the public to report any suspicious activities, storage facilities, or products. Public cooperation is a critical component in safeguarding lives and supporting legitimate businesses,” Wanjala added.

Counterfeit alcohol is a major public safety concern in Kenya. Fake products often contain toxic substances that can cause serious illness, permanent injury, or death. Authorities say the back-to-back raids are aimed at reducing these risks and protecting both consumers and legitimate businesses.