Police in Kwanza Sub-County have destroyed about 3,000 litres of kangara and recovered chemicals suspected to have been used to manufacture illicit alcohol during a crackdown in Falkland, Matisi.
Kwanza Sub-County Police Commander Patrick Nyanga Magara said officers raided a homestead believed to be involved in the production of illegal alcohol, where they seized the suspected brew and several chemicals.
“We have poured out 3,000 litres of kangara from this compound and recovered some dangerous chemicals,” Magara said.
He said the premises was heavily secured with a perimeter fence and electric wires, making it difficult for officers to gain access during the operation.
Among the items recovered was a chemical labelled “Instant”, which Magara said raised concerns over the substances allegedly being used in the preparation of the illicit brew.
He said police were yet to establish the full composition or intended use of the chemicals recovered from the premises.
“This means our people are not safe. We are literally feeding our people poison,” Magara said.
Magara identified the alleged operator of the illicit alcohol business as Rebecca, also known as Westgate, and said she escaped during the police operation.
“Today, this woman managed to escape, but we are looking for her. Once we find her, we will take her to court,” he said.
Police said they were pursuing the suspect and would present her before a court if arrested.
Magara warned suspected habitual illicit alcohol producers in Kwanza that the crackdown would continue, with officers targeting people involved in the manufacture and distribution of unregulated alcoholic drinks.
“To those habitual brewers like this woman, it is just a matter of days. We are coming for you. We will pick you one by one,” he said.
The operation is part of efforts by the Kwanza Sub-County security committee to curb the production and consumption of illicit alcohol in the area.
Magara warned that consumption of unregulated alcoholic drinks could expose residents, particularly young people, to serious health and social risks.
“Similar operations will continue across Kwanza Sub-County as we intensify efforts to disrupt the illicit alcohol trade,” he said.
