A crackdown on illicit alcohol led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) resulted in the seizure of 750 liters of ethanol in Ruaka, Kiambu county.
Collaborating with officers from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the National Police Service (NPS), authorities also confiscated 40 drums, each capable of containing approximately 250 liters of ethanol.
Expressing deep concern, NACADA issued a statement on Thursday, suggesting that these empty drums likely once harbored ethanol meant for illicit consumption.
“Consuming such alcohol poses grave risks and can lead to severe consequences. Counterfeit or illegally produced alcohol has the potential to cause blindness and even death,” the statement cautioned.
Determined to ramp up efforts against substance abuse, the anti-drug authority affirmed that individuals apprehended in such operations will face legal repercussions. The public is urged to report any suspicious activities related to the production, distribution, or sale of alcohol and drugs to authorities via the toll-free line 1192.
This crackdown follows a recent tragedy in Kangai village, Mwea, Kirinyaga County, where ten fatalities and five cases of blindness occurred after individuals consumed illicit liquor at a local establishment.
Similarly, on Tuesday, six family members lost their lives in Kirinyaga, while five others became blind after consuming illicit alcohol. Regrettably, four additional individuals succumbed while undergoing medical treatment at local hospitals.
In connection to these incidents, John Muriithi Karaya, also known as ‘California,’ the suspected owner of the implicated bar, has been apprehended and will be detained for 20 days pending further investigation.
