Inside intricate multi-billion shilling trade in counterfeit alcoholic drinks

KRA officials destroy counterfeit and illicit alcoholic drinks intercepted in different parts of the country at Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company in Ruai. [David Njaaga, Standard]

The proliferating trade in counterfeit alcohol is not only costing Kenyans their lives and livelihoods but also denying the country billions of shillings in taxes every year, a chilling intelligence report reveals.

The report, seen by The Saturday Standard, says unscrupulous manufacturers are spiking drinks with deadly industrial chemicals to make them more potent and get customers hooked. Common illicit additions include methanol, ethanol, fermented sisal juice and jet fuel.