Police have recovered 60 litres of suspected chang’aa in Nyalenda, Kisumu County, after officers intercepted a tuk-tuk transporting the illicit brew during a joint patrol on Wednesday, October 28.
The National Police Service (NPS) said the driver was arrested following the interception, while the suspected alcohol and the tuk-tuk were taken to Kasagam Police Station, where the vehicle remains detained as investigations continue.
According to the police, officers searched the tuk-tuk and discovered 30 plastic bags, each containing two litres of the suspected illicit brew. The bags had been packed inside two yellow nylon bags, bringing the total quantity recovered to 60 litres.
The recovery highlights the role of routine patrols in identifying and intercepting vehicles suspected of transporting illicit alcohol. However, the police statement did not disclose where the brew had originated, its intended destination or whether officers were pursuing other suspects in connection with the incident.
The tuk-tuk remains at Kasagam Police Station as officers continue their investigations into the recovered consignment. Further details on the circumstances surrounding the transportation of the brew were not immediately provided.
Chang’aa is among the illicit alcoholic drinks targeted by Kenyan authorities in enforcement operations aimed at disrupting its production, transportation and distribution. Such operations often involve searches and patrols conducted by police officers in areas suspected of being used to move or store illegal alcohol.
The trade in illicit alcoholic drinks has remained a public safety concern because unregulated production can expose consumers to potentially dangerous substances and alcohol of unknown strength. However, the police statement on the Nyalenda recovery did not provide details about the brew’s composition or establish whether it had been tested.
The NPS said it remained committed to sustained patrols and vigilant enforcement as part of efforts to combat illicit brews.
The service also called on members of the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest police station, saying public cooperation was important in supporting law enforcement efforts.
Investigations into the Nyalenda recovery are ongoing, with the suspected brew and the detained tuk-tuk forming part of the case.
