Tharaka-Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki Tuesday led a multi-agency team in raiding illicit brew dens in the county, where 42, 500 litres of alcohol was destroyed.
The team involved County national government security officers, led by County Commissioner, Muzne Abdulatiff, officials from Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), Nacada, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and public health officers.
At Ikuu village in Chuka Sub-County, the team destroyed 30, 000 liters of Utamaduni beer at Hakim Commercials company owned by Mr. David Gitari and 12,500 litres in Cheera village.
They also burnt sacks of flour, seized about 20 bags of 90 kilogramme sugar and gave out to the members of the public tanks and jerrycans used to prepare the beer.
Speaking during the raid, Mr. Njuki said the war on illegal brewing had just started and will continue until the county is free from the illicit liquor.
He said the illegal brewing companies that were destroyed following a recent declaration by President Kenyatta had been revived and were preparing the dangerous drinks.
“As county leadership, we have declared a total war on production of illicit brew that have destroyed the community and especially the young people,” said Njuki.
The commissioner, Ms. Abdulatiff blamed the members of the public for continuing to consume the liquor, despite it being dangerous to their health and failing to inform police of brewing centres.
“We have started the crackdown and we will not relent until all the brewing centres are closed,” said Ms Abdulatiff.
Ms Rosemary Apiyo, the multi-agency team leader said the beers had not been certified by KEBS and the companies had not complied with KRA.
“We have inspected the liquor and we can confirm that they are illegal,” said Ms Apiyo.
By Kenneth Marangu
