Multi-agency team seizes expired and uncustomed alcohols in Mombasa

A multi-agency team led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has seized large quantities of expired and uncustomed alcohol in Mombasa, targeting the sale of illicit products in Likoni sub-county.

The operation, conducted in collaboration with officers from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), Anti-Counterfeit Agency, Public Health, the County Government, National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), and the National Police Service, resulted in the confiscation of uncustomed alcohol from at least seven suspended brands, several expired alcoholic beverages, and eight gambling machines.

Coast Regional Coordinator Reverend Wangai Gachoka stated, “We are doing a crackdown targeting the suspended alcohol, counterfeit and expired alcohol, and those selling cigarettes against the Tobacco Act of 2007. We are also targeting those selling cannabis sativa, and all types of drugs.”

The team seized numerous expired products, including well-known brands and several uncustomed alcoholic products not meant for public consumption due to potential health risks. “We are looking to safeguard the health of our youth. Even if we cannot ban alcohol, we want them to consume what is safe,” added Rev Gachoka.

Part of the expired and uncustomed alcohol seized in Mombasa, targeting the sale of illicit products in Likoni sub-county. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

He urged the public to check the expiry dates of alcoholic products before purchase and warned against consuming illicit products such as "nusu nusu" (unlabelled alcohol sold in half measures), which is illegal under the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act 2010, commonly known as the Mututho Law.

“We have seized products that should not be on the market, including Kibao, Hunter, White Pearl, and Vodka,” Rev Gachoka revealed. He also cautioned that selling a single cigarette stick, which is an offense, could lead to a fine of Sh30,000 or six months in jail.

One individual suspected of being the supplier was arrested during the raid.

Authorities are urging all alcoholic outlets to comply with the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act 2010, the County Alcoholic Liquor Act, the Public Health Act, and the relevant regulations from KEBS and KRA to avoid further crackdowns.

"We are asking all alcohol outlets to comply. If we find any non-compliant products on the counter, we will not hesitate to seize them," Rev Gachoka urged.