Athorities in Matungulu, Machakos County, Saturday oversaw the destruction of counterfeit second-generation liquor valued at Sh2.5 million.
The operation, carried out at the KBC police station within the Matungulu subcounty police headquarters, occurred on Friday under the leadership of the county security committee and Matungulu subcounty security teams. Heading the initiative was Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko, accompanied by County Police Commander Patrick Lobolia and his AP counterpart Dennis Odero.
Commissioner Ouko revealed that the counterfeit liquor was confiscated following crucial intelligence provided by vigilant members of the public. The seizure was executed by the teams led by Matungulu Deputy County Commissioner Everline Wekesa and Subcounty Police Commander Peter Omondi, whose diligent efforts led to the interception of the consignment on Thursday.
Using an excavator machine, the seized liquor was destroyed and buried in a designated site within the KBC police station premises. Members of the public actively participated in the destruction, contributing to an operation aptly dubbed ‘Ondoa Pombe Haramu Machakos County.’
The destruction exercise saw the involvement of NGAO officials, including assistant county commissioners, chiefs, and their assistants, emphasizing a united front against illicit trade.
Commissioner Ouko sternly warned against collusion with individuals engaged in the illegal trade of banned substances such as bhang and cocaine in the region, commending the subcounty security team for their proactive stance in combating illicit liquor.
She echoed President William Ruto’s stance against illicit second-generation liquor, emphasizing the detrimental impact it has had on Kenyans, spanning across various demographics.
Highlighting the economic implications, Ouko pointed out that some individuals had amassed wealth through the illicit trade, manufacturing, and distribution of counterfeit liquor. She urged the perpetrators to surrender themselves to the authorities before facing legal consequences, asserting that security agencies are well aware of their operations and are prepared for subsequent raids.
As a show of commitment to eliminating illicit liquor trade in Machakos County, Commissioner Ouko emphasized the importance of public cooperation, urging citizens to continue providing vital intelligence to relevant authorities.
In conclusion, she advocated for legitimate business engagement, underscoring the importance of fostering a legal and regulated market environment for the well-being of the community and the nation at large.
