DCI officers raid Thika estate, recover over 13K litres of ethanol and nab 7
By David Nthua, July 12, 2026Detectives have recovered 13,200 litres of ethanol and apprehended seven persons of interest during an intelligence-led operation in Umoja, Thika West Sub-County.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the operation was conducted by a multi-agency team targeting a compound believed to have been used to store and distribute illegal goods.
According to DCI Kenya on X on Sunday, July 12, 2026, officers searched the premises and recovered 66 drums, each containing 200 litres of ethanol.
“During the raid, officers found 66 drums, each holding 200 litres, filled with ethanol,” the DCI said in a statement issued on Sunday, July 12, 2026.
Cigarettes recovered
The team also recovered 17,640 packets of Pall Mall cigarettes believed to be counterfeit. The packets had been concealed beneath animal hides inside one of the lorries found at the compound.
Two lorries believed to have been used to transport the consignment were impounded during the operation.
“The operation also led to the impounding of two lorries believed to have transported the illegal consignment,” the statement reads.
The recovered ethanol, cigarettes and vehicles were secured as exhibits as detectives opened investigations into the source, destination and ownership of the goods.
“All recovered items have been secured as exhibits as investigations continue to determine the full scope of the criminal network involved,” the DCI said.
Investigations continue
The seven persons of interest were taken into police custody for processing as investigators worked to establish their possible connection to the seized consignment.
The agency said the operation formed part of its continuing campaign against illegal trade networks linked to organised crime, public health risks and revenue losses.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations remains focused on breaking down illegal trade networks that threaten public health, support organised crime, undermine legitimate businesses, and deprive the country of vital revenue,” the statement reads.
The DCI asked members of the public to report information on illegal activities through its toll-free line, 0800 722 203, or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.
The agency said reports could be made anonymously as investigations into the Thika operation continue in the wider area.