Kirinyaga: 800 arrested as 1500 litres of illicit alcohol confiscated

Security agencies in Kirinyaga County have arrested around 800 people as the region continues its ongoing fight against drug abuse and illicit alcohol consumption.

Speaking in Kerugoya on Thursday, County Commissioner Naiyoma Tobiko noted that the multi-agency operation also led to the confiscation of over 1,500 litres of illicit alcohol and approximately 800 litres of second-generation alcohol.

"This operation is ongoing across the county. We've been targeting drugs like bhang and illicit brews. We decided to do this because of the well-documented harm that drug abuse is doing to our region," Tobiko told Citizen Digital.

"We've nabbed 1500 litres of illicit alcohol and around 800 litres of second-generation alcohol. We've also arrested around 800 people but the operation is still ongoing."

He added that National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) under his command have been given strict instructions to go hard on those involved in the illegal drug trade, particularly producers, distributors and sellers.

"I am in constant communication with my deputy county commissioners who are briefing me on the progress of the operation in their respective sub-counties," he said.  

Tobiko added that the Kirinyaga County government will not relent on the war against drugs and illicit alcohol.

"It is everyone's responsibility to fight this menace for the betterment of our society," he said.