Thika alcohol firm shut down for selling fake brands

The Director of Criminal Investigations George Kinoti led an operation to arrest the  production manager of Africa Spirits Ltd over illegal ethanol and fake Kenya Revenue Authority stamps found during an inspection in Thika town earlier today.

According to DCI Kinoti, they sought to know how the firm had been smuggling ethanol from Tanzania and sourcing the fake stamps. The plant has since been closed pending the conclusion of the investigations.

The 11am operation included Inspector-General of Police Joseph Boinnet and KRA’s commissioner of Intelligence and Strategic Operations, Mr Githii Mburu.

alcohol

Some of the firm’s popular brands included Bluemoon Vodka, Glenrock whiskey, Furaha Gin and Legend Brandy. They also distribute foreign whiskey (Southern Comfort, Famous Grouse) and Bacardi rum.

According to reports the firm was manufacturing and selling the drinks without subjecting them to required safety checks.

Flying Squad boss Musa Yego confirmed that the company’s products are not fit for human consumption.

In his statement he said, “Some of the stamps on the drinks have failed KRA tests. Those are the ones we are going to charge the owner of this premises for.”

Image result for Bluemoon whisky

Three suspects were arrested in the raid that began on Wednesday and ended on Friday.

KRA Deputy Commissioner Ann Irungu said the operation was part of the government’s efforts to stop the sale of illicit alcohol.

She urged alcohol consumers to be cautious of the products they consume by using Soma Label mobile phone application to verify their suitability.

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