Police seize illicit ethanol, nab 2 persons of interest in Uasin Gishu
By Kiprono Keileb, September 28, 2025Police in Uasin Gishu County have intercepted a vehicle carrying what they described as a large consignment of illicit ethanol in an operation that exposed a suspected smuggling attempt along the busy Nakuru route.
According to a statement issued by the National Police Service (NPS), the officers made the recovery on Sunday, September 28, 2025.
Vehicle with double number plates. In their statement, police revealed that the vehicle was found to be carrying two different sets of registration plates.
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“The vehicle was found to be bearing two separate number plates,” the NPS said.
This discovery raised suspicions, prompting the officers to conduct a deeper inspection of the vehicle.
46 jerricans of ethanol recovered
During the inspection, the officers uncovered a large stock of ethanol concealed inside the vehicle.
“Upon further inspection, officers recovered 46 jerrycans, each with a 30-litre capacity, all containing ethanol,” the statement noted.
This added up to a total of 1,380 litres of ethanol. Police confirmed that both the consignment and the vehicle have since been impounded.
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Two persons of interest were arrested at the scene in connection with the illegal consignment.
“Two individuals were arrested and remain in custody pending arraignment,” the NPS said. The suspects are expected to face charges once investigations are completed.
Police warn against illicit trade
The police used the incident to issue a stern warning to those engaging in the production, distribution, and sale of illicit substances. “Efforts by the National Police Service to combat the production, distribution, and consumption of illicit substances will continue nationwide,” the statement concluded.
Illicit ethanol is often diverted into the brewing of unsafe alcohol that has, in the past, claimed lives in different parts of the country. Police say such operations remain a top priority as part of their fight against organised crime and public health risks.
The latest operation highlights the growing concern over the use of fake number plates in transporting contraband. Authorities have called on members of the public to share any information that may help track down such criminal activities.