NACADA dismantles massive Kibra illicit brew hub

The NACADA team uncovered two massive distilleries in full operation and more than 30 distillation drums.

by STAR REPORTER

News18 September 2025 - 09:19

In Summary

Acting on credible intelligence, the joint team moved in at about 2:00 am, striking a hideout concealed along a riverbank deep inside the informal settlements.
Officers found an active large-scale brewing operation. Though no suspects were present, evidence of illegal production was overwhelming.

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The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has shut down a large illicit alcohol distillery in Kibra following a pre-dawn raid on Thursday, September 18, 2025.

The highly coordinated operation, conducted with the Nairobi Area Police, targeted a hidden brewing site in Sarangombe.

Acting on credible intelligence, the joint team moved in at about 2:00 am, striking a hideout concealed along a riverbank deep inside the informal settlements.

Officers found an active large-scale brewing operation. Though no suspects were present, evidence of illegal production was overwhelming.

The team uncovered two massive distilleries in full operation and more than 30 distillation drums. They also seized over 100 sealed drums, each holding 200 litres of kangara, a harmful raw ingredient for illicit liquor.

The entire setup was dismantled and destroyed on-site to block further distribution.

NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa praised the swift action, calling it a decisive step to protect communities.

“This operation sends a strong message to those who profit from poisoning our communities. Illicit brews have destroyed countless families, fueled crime, and caused preventable deaths. NACADA will continue to work closely with law enforcement and communities to ensure such criminal enterprises are eliminated,” Dr. Omerikwa said.

He linked the raid to the ongoing 100 Days Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) against drug and substance abuse, a program directed by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

“This operation is part of the multi-agency strategy we are coordinating across the country to disrupt supply chains of illicit alcohol and drugs. The RRI is a demonstration of government resolve to protect Kenyans and reclaim communities from the grip of substance abuse,” he added.

Authorities said the bust is a major win in Nairobi County’s fight against illicit brews and a clear signal to those operating similar dens.

NACADA pledged continued surveillance and enforcement to stem the production and sale of dangerous brews, reinforcing the government’s commitment to safeguard public health and restore order in affected neighbourhoods.