Security agencies in Tharaka Nithi County have developed innovative strategies to eradicate illicit brews and substance and drugs abuse.
County Commissioner David Gitonga said they are exploring an avenue in which reformed illicit brewers are engaged in alternative trade such as being provided with pumps by the Kenya Breweries.
“Those who have committed to being reformed are helped to start doing legal business. Kenya Breweries sponsors the reformist with pumps and the county government provides a way of licensing them,” Gitonga who was accompanied by County Deputy Governor Nyagah Muisrael said.
Muisrael said the fight is guided by the County Liquor Act and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s clarion call to end the menace.
“The two levels of government are working as a team because no human being is described as belonging to the national or County Government. we are all Kenyans and must confront these challenges together,” Muisrael said, adding that those caught contravening law will be dealt with without favour.
“We have relaunched the enforcement by multi agencies that will fight illegal brews. The County developed a law where people are vetted before establishing drinking outlets and we have collaborated with the national government. The County government is ready to revoke licenses of those found selling illicit brews and those operating after the stipulated hours. We are not against authorized drinks but people must drink responsibly to be productive,” he said.
Gitonga added that those who reform will be empowered and relied upon to give crucial information of people who are dealing with illicit brews.
The two had met County security teams and security administration officers from the County to relaunch the multi-agency fight against illicit brews and drugs to ensure the fight is sustained.
Gitonga said since March 6, 2024, they have destroyed over 83,000 of illicit brews, conducted 450 raids and arrested 400 people.
“We are still continuing with the campaign. The County Government has developed the County Liquor Act which we are enforcing in the fight against illicit brews. The Key strategy has been before liquor outlet is allowed to operate it is vetted and inspection done by County and National Government security agencies,” Gitonga said.
He said they have mobilized and cascaded the fight to sub location level with all security teams being involved including county government, police and the National Government Administration Officers.
The administrator said they have also come up with new strategies, known as the Mulika Uhalifu App, where people provide real time information.
