On Thursday, the county’s multi-agency team on illicit substances confiscated at least 1,406 boxes of illicit alcohol valued at KSh 5 million from a residential house in Pioneer Estate, Eldoret.

The operation, led by the Kenya Police in collaboration with Alcoholic Drinks Control Board (ADCB) officers, was prompted by a tip-off from members of the public.

A suspect was arrested while distributing the illicit alcohol in Eldoret town, which subsequently led to the discovery of the seized products.

According to County Police Commandant Benjamin Mwathi, the suspect is currently under interrogation to provide further information before being arraigned in court.

Investigations revealed that the KRA tax stickers on the bottles were fake, and empty boxes at the premises suggested possible repackaging of the alcohol. Other agencies, including Anti-Counterfeit, KRA, and KEBS, were also involved in the operation.

In addition, Mwathi noted that approximately 1,500 liters of chang’aa have been confiscated across the county as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal alcohol trade further warning individuals involved in illegal activities that they would face tough measures and arrests.

ADCB Director Koiya Arap Maiyo, speaking at the scene, described the seized alcohol as highly dangerous, noting that storing such substances in residential areas endangered the lives of residents and children.

He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii to fighting illicit drugs, assuring the public that the multi-agency team will continue to crack down on illegal activities.

“Eldoret will not be a haven for illicit alcohol or any other illegal substances,” Arap Maiyo said, urging residents to continue reporting suspicious activities.