Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI), George Kinoti, called on Friday for the arrest of Africa Spirits Limited director, Humphrey Kariuki, after detectives raided his factory in Thika and discovered 312,000 litres of illicit liquor and 21 million Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) stamps that officers said were fake.
The popular brands produced by the factory include Bluemoon vodka, Legend brandy and Glen Rock whiskey.
Through its subsidiary – Wines of the World Beverages – the firm also imports and distributes leading brands of wines and premium whiskey from North America and Europe that include Zappa, Bacardi and Southern Comfort.
KRA Commissioner, Githii Mburu, said the company has not been paying tax amounting to Sh 3 billion.
During the raid on Friday, Kariuki is said to have escaped with two managers.
A senior DCI officer revealed that they have traced Kariuki and he is currently hiding in Zambia.
“We suspect he is still there,” said the officer.
Kariuki is a billionaire in status and has invested heavily in Kenya using his dirty money.
He is the CEO of Fairmont Mt Kenya Safari Club, Dalbit Petroleum, Great Lakes Africa Energy, The Hub Karen, Africa Spirits Limited and WOW (Wines of the World) Beverages.
