This archive report was first published on 16 June 2020.
On June 16, 2020, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) in collaboration with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) launched a sting operation at several wine and spirits depots in Nakuru County, resulting in the impounding of illicit liquor worth Ksh. Four (4) million.
The operation targeted Phoenix Wines & Spirits Depot in Ahero, Mich Wholesalers in Subukia, and Savannah Wines & Spirits in Bahati area of Nakuru County. The multi-agency team recovered various brands of counterfeit alcohol, including 88 cartons of Steem Vodka, 60 cartons of Supa Vodka, and 62 cartons of Bob Vodka.
The owner of the depot was arrested and charged with operating without an excise license and manufacturing counterfeits alcohol brands. The products were also not affixed with excise stamp, contrary to the provisions of the Excise Duty Act.
During the operation, the team searched several wines and spirits depots and homes manufacturers in Subukia Town and Bahati area, confiscating various brands of counterfeit liquor. The public is advised not to buy, sell, or consume the products, as most of the brands are unlicensed.
KRA cautions wholesalers, stockiest, and retailers to avoid unlicensed brands of spirits, including Economy Vodka, Aquila Vodka, Steem Vodka, Simba Vodka, Leader, and Boss Vodka. Manufacturers are also urged to safeguard their brands, bottles, tops, and labels to eliminate counterfeiting of their products.
As part of the fight against counterfeit products, KRA rolled out the Excisable Goods Management System (EGMS) on alcohol, bottled water, juices, energy drinks, soda, and other non-alcoholic beverages. The system requires products to be affixed with excise stamps, making it easy for the public to identify illicit products.
