Busia: Over 8,000 litres of ethanol worth Sh14 million, which was being smuggled into Kenya from Uganda through a porous section of the Kenya-Uganda border near Busia Town, was intercepted by a multi-agency security team. Addressing the press at Malaba Police Station, where the Isuzu lorry registration number KDB 287U is being detained, Western Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamood, who led the regional and Busia County security team, expressed concern over the trend of illegal importation of contraband goods through the border.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mohamood thanked security agencies and members of the public for their continued efforts. "We have intensified border patrols to ensure we completely root out drug trafficking and smuggling of unaccustomed goods which deprive the state of much-needed taxes," noted Mohamood. He lauded the officers for their swift reaction to the intelligence information which led to the interception of the lorry, although the driver managed to escape. Police have launched a manhunt for the driver and the owner of the lorry.
Mohamood emphasized that those interested in conducting business through the Busia and Malaba border must comply with custom rules and pay taxes. He warned that those found using porous entries would face the full force of the law. The drums of ethanol had been concealed by 57 bags of chicken feed to disguise the consignment.
Mohamood highlighted that ethanol is intended for industrial use, yet unscrupulous traders use it to produce counterfeit alcohol, Chang'aa, and fake spirits. He cautioned that such drinks could cause blindness, pose serious long-term health risks, and even lead to death. Samples have been taken for analysis as police launch investigations into the matter.
The driver of the truck escaped using a motorcycle, and police have mounted a manhunt for him and the motorcycle rider amid fears that the consignment was destined for the Mount Kenya region. The police chief expressed regret that many young lives have been compromised due to drug trafficking. He also cautioned police officers colluding with KRA officials and traders to allow the importation of goods without proper procedures that they risk being arrested or interdicted.
This incident follows an earlier case a month ago, where the Busia police commander destroyed bhang worth Sh45 million. Samples of the substance have also been taken to the government chemist laboratory for analysis.