KRA seizes illicit alcohol worth Ksh. 2.4 million in Murang’a

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has seized illicit alcoholic beverages valued at over Ksh. 2.4 million during a major enforcement operation in Makuyu, Murang’a County.

The raid followed a public tip-off about illegal activities at Wellcreek Restaurant along the Nairobi–Embu Road.

Upon storming the premises, officers uncovered a concealed manufacturing plant producing unlicensed alcoholic drinks in violation of the Excise Duty Act.

In total, 6,134 litres of alcohol were impounded, including 1,240 litres of finished products.

Among the seized items were a range of branded and unbranded cocktails such as Ukoo, Mojito Cocktail, Piña Colada, Wicked Tea, Martini Cocktail, Mixed Flavor Cocktail and Long Island Cocktail.

The operation also led to the recovery of about 2,000 litres of unpackaged compounded liquor and traditional alcoholic drinks like Muratina, which had been packaged in 500ml metallic cans and 750ml glass bottles.

The seized products and raw materials were transferred to KRA’s warehouse for further processing and investigations, while the premises were secured to prevent further illegal activity.

KRA noted that the unlicensed alcohol would have cost the government approximately Ksh. 600,000 in lost excise tax revenue had it reached the market. The authority has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying enforcement operations to curb illicit trade and protect public health.