Kirinyaga Launches Crackdown After Two Hospitalised Over Suspected Illicit Brew
KIRINYAGA, Kenya
Two people have been admitted to hospital in Kirinyaga County after allegedly consuming illicit alcohol, prompting county authorities to escalate enforcement operations and launch a probe to track the source of the harmful brew.
The incident occurred in Marura, Mwea, where residents reported that the individuals collapsed shortly after consuming the suspected alcohol. They were first taken to Njegas Health Centre and later transferred to Kerugoya County Referral Hospital for advanced medical evaluation.
County Denies Blindness Claims, Vows Accountability
Dennis Musyimi, the County Executive Committee Member (CEC) in charge of Sports, Culture and Social Services, whose docket includes alcohol regulation, confirmed that the victims are in stable condition and dismissed widespread claims that the individuals had gone blind.
“The doctor has confirmed that the allegations of blindness are false. After medical assessment, both patients were stable and transferred for further investigation,” said Musyimi.
In response, the county government has initiated a thorough investigation in Kangai Ward to identify the source of the illegal alcohol and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We are working closely with the Mwea West sub-county security team. Those behind the production and sale of this brew will face legal consequences,” he added.
Tougher Enforcement of Alcoholic Drinks Control Act
Following the incident, Kirinyaga County has intensified its enforcement of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2024, which governs the production, distribution, and sale of alcohol across the region.
This includes:
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-Unannounced inspections of bars and alcohol outlets.
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-Licensing compliance checks.
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-Safety sampling and lab testing of alcoholic drinks.
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-Immediate prosecution of unlicensed sellers.
“We’re conducting regular safety checks and have ramped up enforcement. Any outlet operating without a valid license will be shut down and its operators prosecuted,” warned Musyimi.
He further urged all bar owners to ensure they renew and update their licenses, reiterating that the vetting process is active and critical to public safety.
Echoes of Past Tragedy Fuel Renewed Vigilance
This latest case has revived painful memories of a February 2024 incident in Kangai, where 17 people lost their lives after consuming a lethal alcohol mix reportedly laced with ethanol. That tragedy triggered public outrage and the arson of the implicated establishment, allegedly owned by a well-connected individual.
In its aftermath, all bars in the area were closed for a fresh vetting process. Governor Anne Waiguru took a firm stance, banning county employees from operating liquor businesses and warning of termination for those found in violation. At least 11 public officers were exposed for breaching this directive.
Public Health and Safety Take Centre Stage
Kirinyaga County officials, including Liquor Board Chair Maina Kihia, reaffirmed their commitment to rooting out illegal alcohol. Kihia warned that any license holder found selling illicit brews would face immediate revocation.
“We are not relenting. Our mission is clear—eradicate illicit alcohol and safeguard the health of Kirinyaga residents,” he said.
Weekly review meetings and lab testing of alcoholic drinks are now part of the county’s robust strategy to ensure consumer safety and enforce compliance across all alcohol-related establishments.
