Central Regional Commissioner Joshua Nkanatha has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating illicit brew and drug abuse, warning that no individual would be spared regardless of purported government protection or influence.
Speaking during a regional, county and sub-county security and community meeting held at Kiamaciri in Kirinyaga West Sub-County, Nkanatha said the intensified operations are part of ongoing government efforts to enforce the President William Ruto’s directive on the war against illicit alcohol and narcotics.
The Regional Commissioner noted that the year 2024 was marked by tragic incidents linked to consumption of poisonous brews, where several residents lost their lives, leaving families devastated and communities in mourning.
He said the deaths sparked widespread condemnation from residents, who demanded decisive action from authorities to stop the deadly trade.
“We cannot sit back and watch our people die from poison disguised as alcohol. The government has a responsibility to protect lives, and that is exactly what we are doing,” Nkanatha said.
He explained that while security agencies have been fighting illicit brew for years, the latest presidential directive has injected new momentum, coordination and accountability into the operations, ensuring that enforcement is sustained and effective across all levels.
Nkanatha issued a stern warning to those involved in the manufacture, distribution and sale of illicit brew, saying that claims of protection by powerful individuals would no longer offer safety.
“Anyone who thinks they are under the protection of anyone should now start feeling unsafe. We do not care how well connected you are. What matters to us is that we are not going to allow people to consume poison,” he said.
The Regional Commissioner also strongly cautioned against the misuse of court orders, stressing that legal instruments should not be used to shield criminal activities that resulted in loss of life.
He stressed that court orders were meant to protect legitimate and lawful businesses, not enterprises that thrive on destroying families and communities.
“If you are running a business where people are losing their lives, we will not allow you to hide behind court orders or any form of protection,” he said.
Nkanatha further warned security officers against collusion with illicit brew brewers, traffickers or drug dealers, saying such betrayal of public trust will be met with severe consequences.
“We are not here to cover anyone. Any officer found colluding with brewers, traffickers or drug dealers will face very tough action. Our mission is to deliver results and safeguard the lives of Kenyans,” he said.
He called on residents to work closely with security agencies by providing timely information, noting that community cooperation is critical in dismantling illegal networks that often operate in secrecy.
The meeting brought together regional administrators, county and sub-county security teams, representatives from national government agencies.
By David Wandeto
