Kigumo: National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) in Kigumo Constituency have issued a firm warning to bar operators conducting business outside the stipulated hours that the law will be strictly enforced during the festive period. The officials emphasized that the multi-agency crackdown will continue throughout the festive season, urging the public to cooperate fully to ensure a safe, orderly, and incident-free holiday period.

According to Kenya News Agency, speaking at Kandani grounds in Kahumbu ward during an economic empowerment forum, the area Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Bernard Odino said the administration will intensify surveillance, particularly during Christmas and New Year festivities when illegal alcohol trade often spikes. "We will follow the rules and regulations to the letter this festive season," the ACC said.

The ACC revealed that a full-scale crackdown has already been launched across the constituency to flush out illicit brews, unlicensed bars, and rogue alcohol manufacturers. "We will not only go for the small fish, the consumers and sellers, but also the manufacturers and suppliers," he warned. "Our dragnet will capture even the big players as we already have credible leads on the peddlers and sooner than later, we shall pounce on them," Odino said.

Odino expressed concern over the impact of alcoholism, particularly among young men, and its contribution to the disintegration of homes. He reiterated the commitment to crack down on perpetrators, suppliers, and manufacturers, ensuring they are prosecuted to save the youth. Additionally, he warned cattle thieves that the government was determined to protect residents' property during the holiday season.

Murang'a County Woman Representative Betty Maina echoed the sentiments, lamenting the rising cases of drug abuse and illicit alcohol consumption among the youth. She urged residents to exercise restraint and prioritize their personal safety. "Be responsible and ensure your safety first by shunning poisonous, adulterated drinks," Maina said. She also called on security agencies to focus on financiers and suppliers of illegal alcohol, rather than solely targeting low-level offenders.

Maina further urged motorists and road users to exercise caution on the roads during the festive period, noting the alarming rise in road accidents in the region. "In Murang'a, we have recently buried many family members because of road carnage. Let us be careful on the road and mind other road users. Your family needs you alive," she said.