Police have intercepted a major consignment of suspected illicit ethanol and arrested two persons of interest during an early morning operation in Namanga, Kajiado County, in the latest crackdown on the illegal alcohol trade.

Speaking through its official X account on Saturday, July 4, 2026, the National Police Service (NPS) said officers from Oloililai Sub-County made the seizure during a routine patrol along Orland Hospital Road in Namanga Town.

“Police officers in Oloililai Sub-County today, 4 July 2026, intercepted a major consignment of suspected illicit ethanol and arrested two persons of interest following a successful early-morning patrol operation along Orland Hospital Road in Namanga Town,” the National Police Service said.

According to the police, officers stopped a white-and-green Scania lorry, and, upon searching the vehicle, recovered 123 drums of suspected ethanol. The driver was immediately arrested.

Second person of interest arrested

Police said officers later intercepted a black Toyota Crown saloon car, which had been trailing the lorry.

Investigations linked the driver of the saloon car to both the lorry and the seized consignment, leading to his arrest.

“The driver of the lorry was taken into custody at the scene. Shortly after the interception, officers also stopped a black Toyota Crown saloon car… and arrested the driver after investigations linked him as the owner of both the lorry and the seized cargo,” the NPS said.

The two persons of interest remain in police custody, while the recovered vehicles and the suspected ethanol have been secured as exhibits pending the conclusion of investigations.

NPS commends officers

The National Police Service praised the officers involved in the operation, saying the successful interception demonstrated their vigilance and commitment to tackling organised criminal activities.

“The National Police Service commends the officers for their vigilance and dedication to their duties and responsibilities. The Service remains resolute in its commitment to combating illegal activities and ensuring that those involved are brought to justice,” the statement read.

Police also urged members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities through the nearest police station or the Service’s toll-free reporting channels.

Crackdown on illicit alcohol

The latest operation comes barely two days after police arrested a suspected chang’aa dealer and recovered 400 litres of illicit brew during an intelligence-led operation in Shaviringa, Tiriki East Sub-County, Vihiga County.

In that operation, officers from Cheptulu Police Station acted on intelligence to apprehend a suspect who had allegedly been evading arrest. The recovered chang’aa was secured as an exhibit as investigations continued.

The back-to-back operations underscore intensified efforts by the National Police Service and other government agencies to dismantle networks involved in the manufacture, transportation and distribution of illicit alcohol, which authorities say continues to pose significant health, security and economic risks across the country.