23 people have been arrested and one bar closed in Nandi County as the Government intensified war against illicit brews, counterfeit alcoholic drinks and narcotic substances in the region.
Nandi County Commissioner Herman Shambi noted that in the past one week, a Rapid Response Initiative (RRI) team has so far confiscated over 5000 liters of illicit brew known as kangara and 300 litres of chang’aa.
Speaking at the County Headquarters after meeting with a Multi-Agency team which comprises sub county teams, officials from KRA, NACADA, and KEBS, Shambi said the crackdown is ongoing and would spare no illegal brewers and users.
“We want to have a community that is sober with people who are engaging in constructive activities not drinking all day,” he said, adding that all outlets selling wines and spirits which failed to observe the laid down rules would also be closed.
The County Commissioner stated that such businesses had deprived men of their dignity as they could no longer look after their families.
He said besides posing public health and safety challenges, the illegal dealers in the alcoholic beverages industry do not pay tax.
He instructed Chiefs and Assistant chiefs to keep records and make progress reports of the crackdown on a daily basis.
“I have instructed the local administrators to work with various stakeholders and map out the dens of this illicit trade and drug abuse in their region and smash them,” he said.
The administrator said when people are sober, they will be able to put into good use the Hustler Fund which will be rolled out soon.
Speaking at the same meeting, Chairman of Bar, Hotels and Liquor Traders Association in Nandi County Chalicha Peter, promised to work with the government to ensure they eliminate illicit brews and counterfeit drinks in the region.
“We want to promote clean business so that our people can consume healthy products,” he said.
By Linet Wafula
