Narok County Launches Multi-Agency Crackdown on Illicit Brew

NAROK — In a significant move to eradicate the sale and consumption of illegal alcohol, Narok County has established a multi-agency team dedicated to combating illicit brewing within the region.

According to Kenya News Agency, this collaborative effort includes police officers, village elders, and National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), who will conduct surprise inspections at known hotspots for the sale of these unlawful beverages.

Lotiatia emphasized that the crackdown would be impartial, highlighting that some illicit operations have been traced back to police officers and other high-ranking government officials. He issued a stern reminder to law enforcement personnel involved in the alcohol trade, stating that police officers are not permitted to engage in any alcoholic business, as their role is to enforce the law against such illegal activities.

The commissioner further clarified that only establishments holding valid licenses would be allowed to operate, insisting that these venues must adhere to strict regulations, including distance from schools and places of worship, and must have their products certified by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). These statements were made during a meeting with senior police officials, including Sub County Police Commanders, Officers Commanding Station (OCS), Deputy County Commissioners, and Assistant County Commissioners at Maasai Mara University Hall.

Prosecution counsel Gitonga Murang’a, also present at the meeting, underscored the importance of thorough investigations to ensure successful prosecutions and mentioned the potential for license cancellations for those found breaching regulations. Murang’a pointed out the widespread suffering caused by illicit alcohol, affirming the prosecutors’ commitment to vigorously pursue offenders.

This announcement follows the recent conviction of six women by Senior Resident Magistrate Sagero Rachemi in Narok law courts, each fined Sh30,000 or facing six months of imprisonment for operating without a valid liquor license. The convicted individuals, identified as Joyce Akinyi, Mary Wangari, Valery Nasieku, Joan Chelangat, Daisy Kemunto, and Caroline Kwamboka, were apprehended in various parts of the county.

The formation of this multi-agency team represents a robust response to the challenges posed by the production and sale of illicit brews, signaling a concerted effort to safeguard public health and uphold the rule of law in Narok County.