The Rift Valley regional security team has launched a coordinated joint operation aimed at curbing the production, distribution and consumption of illicit brew across the region.
The move is designed to enhance public safety and protect lives.
The multi-agency crackdown, which commenced on Wednesday, targets illegal alcohol brewing and distribution dens that have continued to pose serious socioeconomic and health challenges to communities within the Rift Valley region.
Authorities say the consumption of illicit brews has contributed to loss of lives, family instability, low economic productivity and increased crime rates in several counties.
The operation brings together officers drawn from the National Police Service (NPS), Administration Police (AP) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), who will work collaboratively to ensure effective enforcement and sustained security outcomes.
The decision to roll out the joint operation was reached during a high-level security meeting held at Mtelo Hall in Kapenguria, West Pokot County.
The meeting was attended by senior security commanders from Turkana, Trans Nzoia, Elgeyo Marakwet and Uasin Gishu counties, areas that have been significantly affected by the illicit brew menace.
Security officials noted that the affected counties share porous borders with Ethiopia, Sudan and Uganda, raising concerns that some of the illicit substances may be originating from across the borders.
As a result, the commanders resolved to strengthen surveillance and enforcement along these corridors.
The regional security team emphasised the need for enhanced intelligence sharing among officers operating within the region, particularly those deployed along border points.
The aim, they said, is to dismantle supply chains and networks involved in the trade as well as bring perpetrators to justice.
Speaking during the meeting, Rift Valley Regional Police Commander Samuel Ndanyi called for stronger collaboration with other key stakeholders in the fight against illicit brews and hard drugs.
He singled out the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) as critical partners in the ongoing operation.
Ndanyi warned that the operation would not tolerate sabotage from within the ranks, noting that some officers have previously undermined similar efforts by leaking information to suspects.
He said firm instructions had been issued and assured that any officers found culpable would face legal and disciplinary action.
“The arm of government will reach anyone involved in sabotaging these operations, and appropriate action will be taken without fear or favour,” he said.
The Regional Police Commander added that the crackdown is part of an ongoing regional strategy and that similar consultative meetings will be held with the remaining counties in the Rift Valley in the coming days to ensure uniform implementation.
On the broader security situation, Mr. Ndanyi acknowledged the persistent banditry challenges affecting several counties in the region.
He observed that insecurity tends to escalate during the dry season due to acute shortages of pasture and water.
He explained that competition over limited resources often fuels cross-border movements by pastoralist communities, sometimes resulting in banditry and related criminal activities.
By Parklea Ivor
