Police seize 2,520 litres of illicit brew in Kahawa West operation
By Emmanuel Rono, June 18, 2026Police in Kahawa West, Nairobi City County have seized more than 2,500 litres of illicit alcohol and destroyed brewing equipment in a targeted crackdown on illegal alcohol production.
In a joint operation involving officers from the National Police Service and National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), authorities raided Soweto area in Kahawa West, within Kasarani Sub-County, disrupting what investigators say was a major illicit brewing hub.
According to a statement by the National Police service on Thursday, June 18, 2026, the officers recovered 2,400 litres of kangara and 120 litres of chang’aa, alongside assorted equipment used in the manufacture and distribution of the illegal brews.
“National Police Service officers, in collaboration with National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), conducted a targeted operation against the production and distribution of illicit brews in Soweto, Kahawa West, Kasarani Sub-County, Nairobi County, ” NPS said in an X post.
Nationwide crackdown on illicit brews
The police service said the operation forms part of an ongoing nationwide campaign targeting the production and sale of unregulated alcohol, which continues to pose serious public health and safety risks.
The National Police Service further stated that they are commited to dismantling illicit alcohol networks, warning that those involved in the trade will face legal action.
“The National Police Service reiterates its commitment to combating the production, distribution and consumption of illicit brews and other harmful substances that threaten public health, safety and security,” NPS stated.
Security operation support
Members of the public have been urged to support security operations by sharing information on criminal activity through local police stations or via emergency contacts.
“Members of the public are encouraged to support law enforcement agencies by providing timely information on criminal activities at the nearest police station or through the emergency numbers 999 and 911, the #FichuaKwaDCI toll-free line 0800 722 203, or WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.”