Police seize 8,000 litres of illicit ethanol in Webuye
A major haul of a liquid believed to be ethanol has been recovered in Webuye after police impounded a lorry that had been left unattended near a petrol station.
In a statement released on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, the National Police Service said officers based in Webuye grew concerned after spotting the vehicle parked under unusual circumstances.
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When they inspected the lorry, officers found 32 barrels, each with a capacity of 250 litres. The containers were filled with a liquid thought to be ethanol, amounting to an estimated 8,000 litres.
“National Police Service officers based in Webuye yesterday impounded a lorry that had been seemingly abandoned near a petrol station. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of thirty-two barrels, each with a capacity of 250 litres, containing a liquid suspected to be ethanol. The substantial quantity recovered points to a possible case of unlawful transportation and distribution, which is now under active investigation,” NPS stated.
Police said the quantity involved suggests the consignment may have been part of an unlawful supply chain.
“The substantial quantity recovered points to a possible case of unlawful transportation and distribution, which is now under active investigation,” the NPS said.
The vehicle and the barrels were taken to Webuye Police Station, where they are being held as authorities carry out verification and forensic analysis. Samples are expected to determine the exact composition of the liquid and whether any laws were breached.
Investigators are now tracing persons of interest connected to the vehicle. Efforts are underway to establish the registered owner of the lorry, the intended destination of the cargo, and the identity of the individual who was driving it before it was abandoned.
Police noted that while ethanol has legitimate industrial and commercial uses, it can also be diverted into illegal activities if not properly regulated.
“The National Police Service remains vigilant and committed to disrupting illegal activities, protecting legitimate trade, and safeguarding the public from potentially harmful or illicit substances,” the statement added.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing as they move to dismantle any network that may be linked to the consignment.
