Security Officers in Kajiado County have intensified a crackdown on gambling and betting machines.
The County Commissioner (CC), David Kipkemei revealed that 40 gaming machines were confiscated in Kajiado town and another100 machines impounded in Kitengela and Isinya towns following a police raid.
Last week, police officers in the county carried out impromptu raids in several centers and impounded unlicensed betting machines.
Kipkemei, who was addressing the press in Kajiado on Thursday after chairing a security meeting, expressed his concern over the increase of illegal gambling businesses in the area, saying it has contributed to insecurity and impacted negatively on the youth.
He noted that betting is greatly contributing to laziness and irresponsibility among young people as they spent a lot of time gambling hoping that they would become rich overnight.
“We have intensified the fight against gambling. It is unfortunate that a number of residents, especially the youth, have resorted to gambling with the aim of making quick money. We will deal sternly with those involved in the business,” he said.
Kipkemei further directed Chiefs and their assistants to ensure that no single machine operated within the areas of jurisdictions or else they would be personally held responsible.
The County Commissioner further ordered all bars and kiosks around schools to be shut down as they were contributing to the rising cases of insecurity.
He revealed that they had credible information that the kiosks were selling drugs and illegal brews to pupils and the owners would soon be arrested.
“I want all kiosks around school fences to be demolished immediately. Some of these kiosks are used as conduits to supply drugs and illicit brews to our children while they are in school. We are going to withdraw licenses of all bars that are within 300 meters from the schools,” he said
By Rop Janet/ Albert Lemomo
