Police officers have arrested four individuals linked to illegal alcohol as they intensified the war against illicit alcohol in a multi-county operation, recovering litres of molasses and chang’aa.

In a statement by the National Police Service on Friday, June 5, 2026, the police announced that the war against illicit alcohol continues to gain momentum across the country, with police officers in various regions mounting targeted operations.

According to the service, officers from Tala Police Station in Machakos County carried out an operation along the Ngomeni River, a location suspected to be a hub for illegal alcohol production.

At the time of the operation, the officers recovered at least 600 litres of molasses, metallic drums and other apparatus used in the brewing process, as well as 20 litres of chang’aa.

“In Machakos County, officers from Tala Police Station carried out an operation along the Ngomeni River, a location suspected to be a hub for illegal alcohol production. They recovered 600 litres of molasses, metallic drums and other apparatus used in the brewing process, as well as 20 litres of chang’aa,” NPS stated.

Vihiga, Kisumu crackdown

In a similar operation in Vihiga and Kisumu Counties, officers conducted operations that resulted in the arrest of four persons of interest found in possession of 65 litres of chang’aa.

The police further confirmed that the four persons of interest are in police custody pending arraignment in court.

“Additionally, in Vihiga and Kisumu counties, officers conducted operations that resulted in the arrest of four suspects found in possession of 65 litres of chang’aa. The suspects were placed in police custody pending arraignment in court,” NPS added.

Meanwhile, the service has noted that, beyond violating the law, the production, distribution and consumption of unregulated brews continue to endanger lives, destroy livelihoods, and fuel alcohol-related crimes and incidents that undermine safety and security.

Through sustained enforcement and community cooperation, the National Police Service has maintained that it remains committed to eliminating this menace and safeguarding public health and safety.

“Members of the public are encouraged to continue reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police station,” NPS stated.