'We'll audit all brew makers and sellers', Kiambu County Director for Alcohol kang'ethe says

An audit of all breweries, clubs and wine and spirits kiosks will be undertaken in Kiambu in a move aimed at putting an end to illicit brews' production in the county.

Speaking in Thika over the weekend during a crackdown aimed at nabbing clubs and wine and spirit kiosks operating without licenses, County Director of Alcohol Michael Kang'ethe said the audit will ensure the area is free of illicit brews.

"We are soon going to carry out an audit of all beer and liquor manufacturers, clubs and wine and spirits kiosks to ensure they all comply with the set standards. Those contravening the law will be closed down and appropriate action taken against them," he said.

Police pouring out illegal brew. An audit of all breweries, clubs and wine and spirits kiosks will be undertaken in Kiambu in a move aimed at putting an end to illicit brews' production in the county.
(PHOTO: COURTESY)

Punitive laws

He said the County Alcoholic Drinks Act will also soon be amended to introduce more stringent and punitive clauses on how to deal with those who brew or sell brews that end up killing innocent people.

He said his department will work with Kenya Bureau of Standards and Anti Counterfeit Agency to ensure no counterfeit beer or liquor is sold in the county.

"If left unchecked, this illicit brew menace across central Kenya has capacity to wipe out an entire generation. We therefore must act to safeguard our people's future," he said.

His sentiments come a week after four people died and six others were blinded last week in Kiandutu slums after consuming illicit brew while two weeks ago, four others died in Gatundu South under similar circumstances.

The swoop, which was spearheaded by the sub-county liquor licensing committee members and residents of Makongeni estate, netted illicit brews, stashed in cartons and picked up two suspects.