Kisumu, Kenya (Daily Report KE) — Police in Kisumu have arrested six suspects and seized 280 litres of chang’aa in a crackdown targeting illicit alcohol distribution within the lakeside city.
Edward Ndirangu, Kisumu Central Sub-county Police Commander, said the consignment was intercepted following a tip-off from members of the public regarding a dealer supplying chang’aa in the Manyatta area.
“We received information that there was a dealer who normally brings chang’aa within Manyatta area. We mobilized our team and this morning we managed to arrest the main suspect with 280 litres of pure chang’aa being ferried from Busia to Kisumu,” Ndirangu said.
Main Suspect Arrested
The main suspect, identified as Evelyn Auma Odol, was arrested at her residence as the illicit brew was being transported for redistribution within the city.
According to police, the alcohol was being repackaged into smaller containers upon arrival in Kisumu before being supplied to various outlets.
In addition to the main suspect, five other individuals allegedly involved in redistribution were arrested. All six suspects are expected to be arraigned in court on Monday.
Vehicle Impounded
Police also impounded a Toyota Fielder registration number KDB 654W, believed to have been used to ferry the illicit brew from Busia to Kisumu. Authorities say the vehicle is linked to the main suspect.
Samples of the seized alcohol will be forwarded to the government chemist for verification before formal charges are filed. The remaining consignment will be destroyed upon court orders.
Nationwide Crackdown
The operation forms part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on illicit brews and drug trafficking, in line with directives issued by William Ruto.
“We do not want illicit brews to destroy our young boys and girls within Kisumu. The fight is still on, and we urge members of the public to cooperate with police and local administrators by sharing information,” Ndirangu added.
Security Heightened After Deadly Attack
Security operations in Kisumu have also been intensified following a separate incident in which a gang riding on motorbikes attacked two watchmen at K-City Business Park at around 3 a.m. on Saturday, fatally injuring one.
Officers from Kisumu Central and Kisumu East, including the Quick Response Team (QRT), are pursuing suspects linked to the attack.
Police say patrols have been increased in identified hotspots as authorities move to curb illicit trade and criminal activities in the region.
