Police destroy 10K litres of illicit brew in major Kangemi raid
By Aloys Michael, August 27, 2025In a major crackdown on the illegal alcohol trade, police officers from the Nairobi Region recovered and destroyed more than 10,000 litres of illicit brew in Kangemi, Dagoretti Sub-County.
The early morning operation, targeting the production and distribution of outlawed alcoholic drinks, saw officers seize large quantities of brewing materials and second-generation liquor in what authorities described as one of the biggest busts in recent months.
“During the raid, more than 10,000 litres of kangara were destroyed,” the police said in an official X statement on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.
“Approximately 50 kilograms of jaggery and five packets of yeast catalyst were also recovered, alongside thirteen cartons of second-generation liquor.”
Kangara, a locally fermented drink made from jaggery, yeast, and water, is a key ingredient in many banned brews that are notorious for their severe health effects and high ethanol content.
The police noted that the operation dealt a significant blow to the supply chain of illicit alcohol in the area.
Police further confirmed that all exhibits have been secured as evidence and that investigations are underway to identify and apprehend the individuals behind the illegal enterprise.
“Efforts are underway to trace and apprehend the suspects behind the illegal trade,” the statement read.
The raid is part of an intensified national effort to curb the production and sale of illicit brews and second-generation alcohol, which have been linked to numerous deaths, blindness, and long-term health complications in various parts of the country.
The National Police Service emphasised its unwavering commitment to safeguarding communities from the dangers posed by these illegal substances, especially among the youth.
“The National Police Service reiterates its commitment to the fight against illicit brews and second-generation alcohol, which continue to pose grave risks to public health and security,” the statement read.
The police have called on the public to support their efforts by reporting suspicious activities linked to illegal alcohol production and distribution.
This operation comes amid a broader government crackdown across the country, aimed at ending the scourge of toxic brews and restoring safety in affected neighbourhoods.