Editor's Review

“Relevant agencies are directed to immediately initiate inquiries upon which appropriate administrative action will ensue on those found culpable."

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has recalled senior government officials over the Kirinyaga illicit alcohol incident that has left ten people dead.

In a statement on Friday, February 9, CS Kindiki said the misconduct of the senior official contributed to the loss of lives in Kirinyaga County.

“The Government has recalled senior law enforcement and National Government Administration officers who by conduct or misconduct may have contributed to the recent loss of lives occasioned by the consumption of an illicit toxic brew in Kirinyaga County, Central Region,” read the statement in part.

At the same time, CS Kindiki ordered security agencies to initiate investigations on the incident and ensure the culprits are brought to book.

“Relevant agencies are directed to immediately initiate inquiries upon which appropriate administrative action will ensue on those found culpable,” Kindiki added.

File image of Interior CS Kithure Kindiki. 

Six family members on Tuesday died and five others went blind after consuming the illicit brew in Kirinyaga’s Kangai area.

Four other people later succumbed while undergoing medical care at hospitals in the county.

The National Authority for Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA) leadership on Thursday visited the scene and said the authority was yet to establish the contents of the illicit liquor.

“From preliminary reports, the deaths occurred as a result of consumption of an unidentified substance whose contents are yet to be established,” said NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa.

The owner of the outlet John Muriithi Karaya is in police custody pending the conclusion of investigations.