In continued efforts to combat the sale and consumption of illicit brew and substance abuse, authorities in Murang’a South Subcounty have conducted a mass destruction of illicit brews, brewing apparatus, and bhang that had been used as court exhibits.
The operation saw the destruction of 2,600 liters of illicit brew, 1,500 kilograms of bhang, and three brewing drums.
The operation was led by the Assistant County Commissioner, Kimorori division Patrick Kibira,the Sub County Police Commander Charity Karimi, the National Government Administration Officers team and members of the judiciary.
Karimi observed that the exhibits illegal substances had been seized in the last three months, thanks to the combined efforts of the National Police Service, the NGAO team, the judiciary, and members of the public.
“The confiscated bhang alone had a street value of approximately Sh. 15 million and I assure the public that we are relentless in the fight against drugs and illicit brew” she said
She emphasized on the importance of eliminating these harmful substances from society to safeguard public health and ensure a sober, productive community.
“We are committed to ensuring that our people do not consume poison in the name of alcohol or drugs” she added
She noted that the crackdown would continue, and we urged the public to work with the administration by providing information on those involved in this illegal trade.
On his part, the Assistant County Commissioner commended the team behind the successful crackdown, particularly the Kenol Law Courts, which have handed down strict penalties to offenders.
He expressed appreciation for the cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public in identifying and dismantling illicit brewing dens.
However, Kibira did not hesitate to send a strong warning to those still engaging in the illegal trade of illicit brew and substances.
“To those selling these poisons to our youth, your days are numbered, we are tracking you down, and we will not relent until you face justice” he warned
He added that the government would not allow individuals to destroy lives and families for profit.
“We will tighten our operations, and anyone caught will face severe consequences, including heavy fines and jail terms,”
He further cautioned that authorities were increasing surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts to ensure that illicit brew traders and drug peddlers had no hiding place.
“We have seen the damage caused by these illegal substances—families broken, young lives wasted, and communities suffering.
“We will not allow this to continue under our watch. Let this be a message to those engaging in this trade: We will find you, arrest you, and ensure you face the full force of the law,” Kibira emphasized.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug and illicit brew trade.
The government, they assured, was fully committed to protecting the community from the dangers of substance abuse.
To ensure that these illegal substances would never find their way back into the streets, authorities carried out their destruction in an environmentally friendly manner.
By Florence Kinyua and Nickson Wambugu
