Police in Kakamega are holding 24 persons of interest following an intensified crackdown against illicit brew in the county.

In a statement on Saturday, September 27, 2025, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed the successful operation, which also led to the recovery of 84 litres of local brew, known as Chang’aa.

Police paraded mostly women and other individuals who were waylaid before being apprehended.

“National Police Service officers from Kakamega Police Station have conducted an operation against illicit brews within Kakamega Town, arresting twenty-four suspects and seizing 84 litres of Chang’aa,” the statement read in part.

Arraignment

According to the National Police Service, the 24 are expected to be processed before being arraigned on Monday, 29, 2025.

Following the successful operation, NPS warned the area residents against brewing and selling illegal brew. The law enforcement officials vowed to intensify operations in an effort to clean up the growing town.

“The suspects were escorted to the station along with the exhibits and will be arraigned in court on Monday,” NPS explained.

“The National Police Service will intensify its crackdown on illicit brews and cautions the public against engaging in such illegal activities,” security officers warned.

Busia operation

Earlier on Saturday, September 27, 2025, police had seized a large consignment of cannabis. The operation was conducted at the Suo roadblock along the Busia–Kisumu Highway, where one person of interest was apprehended.

According to police, the individual was transporting narcotics on a motorcycle when officers stopped him for inspection. Upon searching the person of interest, the police discovered 12 kilograms of cannabis, locally known as bhang, with an estimated street value of Ksh360,000. Two other individuals who were with him managed to flee before police could apprehend them.

“Police officers manning the Suo roadblock on the Busia–Kisumu Highway in Busia County today arrested a suspect who was transporting suspected narcotic drugs on a motorcycle,” the statement read.