Nandi County Police Commander Samuel Mukusi, has called on the Judiciary to impose stiffer penalties on individuals found guilty of brewing illicit alcohol, noting that the practice has significantly hindered development in the county, particularly among the youth.
Mukusi stated that the widespread brewing and consumption of illicit brews has contributed to delayed or stalled Socio-Economic progress in Nandi county, as many young people are drawn into substance abuse instead of productive economic activities.
He urged police officers across the county to remain vigilant and intensify crackdowns on illegal brewing dens, noting that the National Police Service and the Judiciary are set to hold consultative talks aimed at ensuring that offenders face tougher sentences that will act as a deterrent measure.
The objective, he said, is to discourage involvement in the illicit alcohol trade and encourage affected individuals to seek alternative, lawful sources of income.
“We urge our people to engage in other legal income sources than selling illicit brews,” he said.
The County Commander also appealed to the county government and other stakeholders to work in collaboration in identifying and promoting decent alternative livelihood opportunities for the less fortunate members of society who often resort to illicit brewing due to economic hardship.
Mukusi highlighted that the harmful effects of drug and substance abuse are increasingly evident in the community, citing rising cases of youth involvement in robbery, violent crime, and mental health challenges.
He confirmed that police operations targeting illicit breweries are ongoing across all sub-counties in Nandi, with successful raids already conducted in Chesumei sub-county.
He emphasized that the police will not relent in the fight against illegal alcohol, noting that many families’ relationships have been destroyed due to alcohol abuse and that no meaningful development can be realized under such circumstances.
Operations in Nandi South (Aldai sub-county) were particularly applauded following the efforts of the sub-county commander, who oversaw the seizure and destruction of over 1,600litres of Kangara, a recipe for preparing busaa (illicit brew).
Additionally, 60 litres of chang’aa were impounded, and one suspect arrested and is currently in police custody as investigations continue to apprehend other suspects involved in the illegal brewing business.
By Geoffrey Satia and Joseline Chepkorir
