Gov’t to shut down half of bars in Laikipia amid war on illicit brews

The Laikipia county government is set to reduce bar outlets in the region by half to enhance the war on illicit brews and second-generation alcoholic drinks.

According to Governor Joshua Irungu, there are over 3,000 new liquor licence applicants, but the county administration intends to reduce operating outlets to less than 1,500.

He said his administration is committed to proactively dealing with drugs, substance abuse and alcoholism, which is dispiriting the young generation.

Speaking on Wednesday in Rimuruti on the sidelines of a consultative meeting bringing together county administration and security agencies from the county among other key stakeholders, the government observed that members of the public have the opportunity to challenge the bars that will be approved.

He added that though there were numerous challenges facing the initiative, the governor added that even those who want to challenge the decision through regal redress would not succeed since this was a joint collaboration with relevant government agencies.

County Commissioner Joseph Kanyiri echoed the sentiments saying those engaging in the manufacture, and sale of illicit brews would not be tolerated.

He underscored the need for bar owners to observe caution and obey to the sale of alcoholic drinks saying anyone who will be found contravening the law would not be spared.

The leaders said the reduction of bars will assist in fighting increased alcoholism, which has affected many young people in the area.

They said the fight against counterfeit alcohol and illicit brews, which is being spearheaded by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, will bear fruit if all stakeholders are committed to the exercise.

The county commissioner added that individuals issuing threats to government officers will be dealt with accordingly, no one will block the exercise and security officers will intensify their crackdown on those contravening liquor laws.