The County Government of Uasin Gishu has launched an operation aimed at curbing increased illicit alcohol within Eldoret town.
Led by the County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board, the operation is also targeting bars and entertainment joints operating without licences.
Further the crackdown also seeks to deal with entertainment joints operating outside stipulated time and those selling repackaged alcohol.
The operation started on December 19, 2022, in which the board’s officials were in Outspan.
Speaking during the operation, acting Director of Alcoholic Drinks Control Board Koiya Arap Maiyo, assured Outspan Centre residents of the county’s commitment on ensuring that all residents are safe during this festive season.
Unlicenced bars
He noted that the team managed to shut down 3 bars operating without licenses in Outspan center and Sugunanga area.
15 people were arrested for involvement in the illegal supply of alcohol.
Assorted alcoholic drinks including second generation type that are harmful to the consumers’ health were also impounded.
The operation further managed to rescued one resident who was reported to have been unconscious for over 48 hours in one of the bars.
A day later, on December 20, 2022, they intensified the fight against illicit liquor in an operation that was conducted by the inspectorate officers in Kuinet/Kapsuswa ward, Soy Sub County.
Speaking while supervising the operation, Koiya urged residents to be on the fore front in identifying the brewing areas which he said had affected their livelihoods and the generation.
In the operation, 250 litres of Kangara and 20 litres of changaa was nabbed.
Kuinet, Sogomo
Two brewers were also arrested.
“We want to urge you to always alert us on the brewers so that we can save our children from this menace,” Koiya urged locals.
The team also visited Kapkerek village in Kuinet where a middle aged man is said to haveost his life from suspected illicit brew.
The operation was also extended to unlicensed outlets in Kuinet and Sogomo trading centres.
The County Government of Uasin Gishu is targeting to undertake the crackdown in all trading centers and residential areas.
This is in a bid to create an enabling environment, safe for children on holiday as well as ensure that the licensed clubs also sell legal drinks approved by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KeBS).
