Police in Meru County have arrested a woman suspected of operating an illegal brewing business after recovering 340 litres of illicit alcohol during a raid on her residence in Kiengu Sub-County.
On Saturday, October 17, 2026, the National Police Service (NPS) announced that officers conducted the operation on Friday, October 16, following information from members of the public about the preparation and sale of illicit brews at the premises.
Police recover illicit brew
According to NPS, officers moved into the residence after receiving intelligence linking the premises to illegal alcohol production and distribution.
The operation resulted in the recovery of 320 litres of muna and 20 litres of chang’aa, bringing the total quantity seized to 340 litres.
Police said the suspect was found engaging in the illegal trade when officers arrived.
Police arrest a woman in Meru with illicit brew. Photo/https://x.com/NPSOfficial_KE
The woman was immediately arrested and taken into police custody as investigations continued.
“The suspect was arrested and placed in custody pending arraignment in court on the relevant charges,” NPS stated.
The police did not disclose the suspect’s identity or provide details of how long the suspected illegal brewing operation had been running.
The recovered alcohol is expected to form part of the evidence presented during the prosecution process.
NPS appeals for public support
Following the arrest, NPS urged Kenyans to continue sharing information about individuals involved in the production and sale of illicit alcohol.
“The National Police Service urges members of the public to continue providing timely information as police sustain efforts to dismantle illicit brewing operations and curb the production, sale and consumption of harmful brews,” the statement read.
The service encouraged residents to report suspicious activities to their nearest police stations.
Members of the public can also contact police through the toll-free emergency numbers 999 or 911.
Alternatively, information can be shared through the #FichuaKwaDCI hotline, 0800 722 203, or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.
The arrest forms part of ongoing police operations targeting the production and distribution of illicit alcohol across the country.
