Police in Eldoret have seized ethanol valued at about half a million shillings, intensifying concerns over the illegal alcohol trade in Kenya’s Rift Valley.
The discovery was made on Thursday in the Annex area along the Eldoret–Nakuru highway. Officers, acting on a tip-off, uncovered 10 jerricans buried inside the compound of an unfinished house.
Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi confirmed the raid. “This compound was raided just last month, and illicit alcohol was confiscated. These substances are dangerous to public health, and we are not relenting in the fight against them,” he told reporters.
No suspects were present during the operation. Authorities are now urging the property owner to come forward as investigations continue.
The seizure highlights the persistence of illicit brews in the region, despite repeated police crackdowns. Local health officials have long warned that such substances, often repackaged for sale, pose serious risks, including poisoning and long-term organ damage.
Police say they are pursuing leads on the syndicate believed to be behind the stash.
About the Author
