Three dead in Nakuru after consuming illicit alcohol

A man takes a local brew popularly known as chang'aa at Waondo village, Mbita in Homabay county on July 02,2015. [File, standard]

Three people have died in Nakuru County after consuming illicit alcohol, the Ministry of Health has confirmed.  

In a statement on Sunday, December 22, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni described the incident as a tragic reminder of the dangers of unregulated alcohol, which contain harmful substances such as methanol.  

"This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the grave risks associated with consuming unregulated and unlicensed alcoholic beverages. Illicit alcohol often contains harmful substances like methanol, which can be fatal," the PS said.  

She further warned that consuming illegal alcohol poses serious health risks, including blindness, organ damage, and death. 

Muthoni urged the public to prioritise safety by purchasing only government-registered and licensed alcohol, which undergoes quality control to meet safety standards.  

The PS also cautioned against buying suspiciously cheap or counterfeit alcoholic products from unreliable sources. She highlighted the need for continuous public awareness campaigns, particularly during the festive season.  

"This tragic event underscores the importance of ongoing nationwide public awareness campaigns led by the Division of Drug and Substance Abuse Control."

Authorities have launched investigations into the incident and intensified efforts to curb the sale of illicit alcohol in the region.