The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has seized 277 boxes of suspected counterfeit alcoholic spirits in a dawn operation in Nairobi’s Ngara area, with the consignment estimated to be worth Ksh1.4 million.

The raid followed intelligence gathered over weeks of surveillance. ACA inspectors intercepted the goods before they could be distributed to bars, liquor outlets and other retail points within the city.

According to the agency, the consignment comprised various popular alcoholic brands packaged in a manner similar to genuine products.

Dawn raid in Ngara

The authority said the operation targeted a storage point believed to be part of a wider distribution network. By conducting the raid early in the morning, inspectors secured the consignment before it entered the market.

Lead Inspector Abikar Abdi, who oversaw the inventory process, said the agency remains focused on protecting consumers from unsafe products.

“Every bottle we remove from circulation is a potential life saved,” he said. “Our team is not just enforcing the law; we are standing as a shield between unscrupulous traders and the health of Kenyans.”

The seized goods were transported to an ACA facility for further examination.

Health risks and investigations

Authorities have previously warned that counterfeit alcohol may contain harmful substances. The ACA noted that fake alcoholic drinks often fail to meet regulatory standards and can pose health risks to consumers.

The seized consignment will undergo laboratory testing to determine its composition. Findings from the analysis are expected to support ongoing investigations and potential prosecution of those involved.

The authority said it is working to trace the source of the products and dismantle the supply chain behind the suspected counterfeit trade.

Call for public vigilance

ACA urged members of the public to remain alert and report suspicious products through official channels. The agency advised consumers and retailers to verify product labelling, seals and pricing before purchase or sale.

“Kenyans deserve safe, genuine products,” the agency stated. “Vigilance from consumers, retailers, and law enforcement together forms the strongest defence against illicit trade.”

The Ngara operation is part of continued enforcement efforts by the authority aimed at curbing the circulation of counterfeit goods in the country and safeguarding public health.