DCI officers display hundreds of seized counterfeit juice bottles and raw chemical ingredients found during a raid in Muthua. The operation led to two arrests in Kabete. (Photo: Entertainment)
Detectives in Kabete have arrested two men after raiding an alleged illicit juice manufacturing facility in Muthua, Kiambu County. The officers also seized more than 1,400 bottles of suspected counterfeit juice during the operation.
The raid followed a tip-off from local residents who alerted police about the alleged illegal manufacturing activities. Officers from Kabete Police Station then moved to the residential compound and found the suspects processing and packaging the drinks.
Detectives Discover Illicit Juice Factory
The suspects, identified as Alex Mwaruta and James Munala Inyangala, were arrested while allegedly producing the drinks. Crime Scene Investigation officers later secured the compound and documented equipment and materials linked to the operation.
Police recovered more than 1,400 filled bottles of suspected illicit juice. They also seized 56 cartons of empty plastic containers prepared for packaging.
Additionally, detectives found two large blue mixing drums and three plastic basins at the scene. Officers also recovered five packets of bottle caps used in the packaging process.
Fake Branding Materials Recovered
Detectives further discovered materials allegedly used to imitate legitimate beverage brands. The items included printed brand stickers, office glue, rubber stamps and ink.
Officers also found an expired standardization certificate bearing the name of a popular commercial juice manufacturer. Several chemical powders and unlabelled liquids were also recovered from the compound.
The substances were reportedly packed in 50-gramme polythene bags and small bottles. Their presence raised further concerns about the safety and origin of the beverages.
DCI Warns Against Counterfeit Drinks
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations warned Kenyans about beverages produced without proper regulatory approval. According to the agency, such products can expose consumers to biological and chemical risks.
The DCI also said it would continue targeting individuals involved in counterfeit production and distribution networks.
Meanwhile, the agency urged members of the public to report suspected illegal manufacturing activities. Citizens can provide information anonymously through the DCI’s official reporting channels.
The two suspects remain in police custody as investigators complete evidence processing. They are expected to appear in court over alleged offences linked to the manufacture and distribution of unstandardized goods.
