One arrested as police bust illicit brew storage in Kisumu thicket
A police operation in Kisumu has led to the arrest of one individual and the seizure of a large quantity of illicit alcohol hidden in a local thicket.
In a statement posted on their official X account on Sunday, July 20, 2025, the National Police Service (NPS) reported that officers from Kisumu Central Police Station acted on a public tip-off to uncover the concealed stash.
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“Earlier today, July 20, 2025, officers from the Kisumu Central Police Station, acting on a tip-off from members of the public, conducted a successful operation resulting in the discovery and destruction of a large quantity of illicit alcohol,” the police statement read.
The haul included 10 jerricans, each holding 20 litres, two 200-litre drums of Kangara, and five litres of chang’aa.
“During the operation, officers uncovered a concealed stash hidden within a local thicket. The haul included 10 jerricans (20 litres each), 2 drums (200 litres each) of Kangara and 5 litres of Chang’aa,” the statement added.
Preliminary investigations
According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the thicket was being used as a temporary storage point before the Kangara could be moved for distillation.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the thicket was being used as a temporary storage site for the Kangara before its transportation for distillation,” the police statement noted.
The authorities further disclosed that the individual believed to be the owner of the illicit consignment was arrested at the scene during the operation and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, July 21, 2025.
“One suspect, believed to be the owner of the illicit consignment, was arrested at the scene and is due to appear in court tomorrow,” the police said.
Community cooperation praised
The National Police Service commended members of the public for their role in facilitating the operation, noting that such cooperation is essential in curbing the manufacture and distribution of illicit brews.
“The National Police Service (NPS) applauds members of the public for their continued cooperation and vigilance. Their timely sharing of information plays a critical role in enhancing community safety and supporting the fight against illicit brews and drug-related activities,” the statement concluded.
