A major multi-agency operation targeting the manufacture and consumption of illicit alcohol has been carried out in Isiolo County.

According to the NPS statement on Saturday, June 27, 2026, 27 people of interest were caught even as the government intensifies its crackdown on illegal brewing across the country.

According to the National Police Service (NPS), the intelligence-led operation was conducted on Friday, June 26, 2026, in the Mwangaza area of Isiolo County.

The operation brought together officers from the National Police Service, the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), and the Isiolo County Government.

Multi-agency raid

The NPS said the operation targeted an illicit brewing den believed to have been operating within the area.

According to the police, two people believed to be key manufacturers of the illicit brew, and 25 others who were allegedly consuming the liquor, were found at the scene.

“During the raid, the team arrested two key manufacturers of the illicit brew and 25 suspects who were consuming the liquor at the scene.

“They also seized a large quantity of manufacturing ingredients, processing equipment, and the illicit brew, which are now being held as exhibits,” the NPS statement read in part.

The service further stated that all 27 people of interest were escorted to Isiolo Police Station, where they are undergoing processing before being presented in court.

Police also reported recovering a large quantity of suspected illicit brew, raw materials used in its manufacture and processing equipment, which have been retained as exhibits.

Crackdown continues

The operation is the latest in a series of coordinated efforts by security agencies aimed at curbing the manufacture, distribution and consumption of illicit alcohol.

In its statement, the National Police Service said it would sustain intelligence-led operations across the country.

“The National Police Service will continue to intensify surveillance, conduct targeted raids, and work with other government agencies and local communities to identify and shut down all illegal brewing dens,” the statement read in part.

Public urged to report

The police have appealed to members of the public to support the ongoing campaign against illicit alcohol by reporting suspected illegal brewing activities.

“Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the emergency numbers 999 and 911, the #FichuaKwaDCI toll-free line 0800 722 203, or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000,” the statement added.

The identities of the 27 people of interest have not been released.

Their cases are expected to proceed through the criminal justice process, where any charges and the evidence supporting them will be determined by the courts.