Security officers in Murang’a County have stepped up efforts to curb illicit and substandard alcoholic drinks, amid growing concerns over public health risks, insecurity and non-compliance within the hospitality sector.
Speaking during a consultative meeting bringing together members of Murang’a Bar and Hotel Owners Association, security officers, NACADA and other stakeholders Thursday, County Commissioner Hassan Bule said coordinated action was critical in dismantling illegal alcohol networks.
Bule noted that there was need for integrity among enforcement officers and cooperation from traders, so as to fight the surge of illicit brews and counterfeit liquor brands.
“We want security officers to work closely with the government to reduce illicit brews and avoid corruption that compromises operations,” he said.
The County Commissioner clarified that licensed alcohol distributors are required to use branded vehicles to enhance traceability of products and help distinguish genuine supplies from illegal ones during inspections.
Murang’a County Criminal Investigation Officer Dennis Anyango said inspections conducted in 2024 and 2025 by sub-county security teams revealed widespread non-compliance among alcohol outlets across the county.
He noted that enforcement agencies inspected more than 3,800 premises, with only about 2,400 meeting licensing requirements.
“Most of the licences had expired, while others did not meet operational standards,” Anyango said.
He added that some establishments were operating beyond approved hours, while others combined bar and restaurant services without separate licences, warning that continued non-compliance would attract firm legal action.
“Bars operating alongside restaurants must obtain separate licences and adhere to approved operating hours.” Anyango warned.
Murang’a Bar and Hotel Owners Association chairman Julius Mbogo underscored the importance of the meeting, saying it was timely in helping business owners understand regulatory expectations and inspection procedures.
He acknowledged challenges facing small-scale traders including misinformation and inconsistent documentation.
“Our members have been advised to keep proper records and only purchase alcohol from licensed distributors,” Mbogo said.
“Having genuine receipts is very important because it protects bar owners during inspections and prevents unnecessary losses,” he added.
NACADA representative John Mwaliko cautioned that illicit alcohol continues to pose serious health threats and social problems within communities.
“Bar owners must always obtain original receipts from licensed distributors to avoid getting into trouble during inspections,” Mwaliko said.
He added that alcohol abuse and illicit brews expose communities to long-term health risks, calling on the public to share information with authorities.
“Silence will destroy the future of our generation,” Mwaliko said, noting that NACADA operates an open-door policy to encourage reporting and intelligence sharing.
By Bernard Munyao
