Nairobi Loop: post #17172 — TG.ME

KEBS Under Fire Over Poisonous Alcohol Crisis: The Kenya Bureau of Standards is facing mounting criticism as the country’s counterfeit and illicit alcohol crisis deepens. Industry data shows that illicit drinks now account for an estimated 60% of all alcohol consumed in Kenya. Authorities continue to seize large quantities of fake alcohol across the country. Recent operations include the recovery of 868 suspected counterfeit drinks in Eastleigh, Nairobi, and the dismantling of illegal plants producing methanol-laced spirits. Consumer advocates describe the situation as a full-blown public health catastrophe, with reports of organ failure, blindness and deaths linked to toxic drinks. The Anti-Counterfeit Authority estimates the illegal alcohol economy costs Kenya about Sh71 billion annually in lost revenue and health impacts. Legitimate bar owners and hoteliers have also raised the alarm, saying fake products are flooding the market and undercutting genuine businesses.