Nandi County Commissioner Wilberforce Kilonzo has warned operators of illicit brew dens near schools that they will face intensified enforcement as the government moves to curb alcohol abuse and protect learners across the county.
He said Deputy County Commissioners had been directed to establish Rapid Deployment Units to work with chiefs and village elders in a coordinated crackdown targeting illicit alcohol production and distribution across approximately 4,000 villages.
Speaking during a security operation in Kimgeru Village, Chesumei Sub-County, he said the initiative would strengthen efforts to dismantle illegal brewing dens while addressing the impact of illicit alcohol on public health and youth development.
“I have directed each sub-county to create a rapid deployment unit. This team of officers will work with our chiefs and village elders in the 4,000 villages to crack down on criminals and illicit brews,” Kilonzo said.
He explained that the units would accompany chiefs and village elders during security operations and raids to identify illegal brewing establishments and those involved in the trade.
The commissioner expressed concern about the threat of alcohol abuse to young people, particularly during school holidays.
He urged parents to monitor their children closely while schools were closed, as security agencies stepped up measures against illicit liquor outlets.
Illicit brews threaten youth and sporting talent
Kilonzo also linked the illicit brew problem to the county's long-term social and economic prospects, particularly its reputation for producing elite athletes and its dependence on agriculture.
“Illicit brew menace is a big challenge in this area and threatens to wipe out a whole generation if not tamed. Athletics is a key sporting activity in this county with huge economic impact. If illicit brew is left unabated, it will wipe out youth and sports talent, affecting the region's economy,” he said.
He maintained that security agencies would sustain the operation until the illicit alcohol trade was brought under control.
“This is a very serious concern and we will not relent until it is completely eradicated,” Kilonzo added.
The commissioner urged residents to support the campaign by sharing information with local administrators, saying community participation would help security agencies identify illegal operators and reach areas that might otherwise be difficult to access.
“Let us support our chiefs by giving them information so that we track and crack down on these criminal elements,” he said.
Police intensify surveillance and enforcement
County Police Commander Samuel Mukuusi said illicit brews were dangerous to consumers because they were often produced using crude, unregulated and unhygienic methods that could introduce harmful substances into the drinks.
Mukuusi said police had intensified surveillance and intelligence gathering targeting illicit brewing dens and chang'aa outlets. He warned that those found producing or selling illegal alcohol would be arrested and prosecuted.
“We have put measures in place to ensure those found engaging in brewing and selling of illicit brew face the law. We call upon members of the public to partner with us,” he said.
Mukuusi accompanied the commissioner during the operation alongside senior officers from the Administration Police, Directorate of Criminal Investigations and National Government Administration Officers.
Residents in the area welcomed the renewed focus on illicit alcohol, citing concerns about its effects on education and young people. They pledged to cooperate with security agencies and local administrators to help make the operation successful.
The initiative is expected to strengthen grassroots security by embedding officers in joint operations with chiefs and village elders, improving intelligence sharing and extending enforcement efforts to remote villages across Nandi County.
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