Editor's Review

According to the interior CS, the order will also target landlords renting out their properties to individuals selling toxic brews.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has announced an operation aimed at seizing and auctioning specific vehicles in the country.

Speaking on Tuesday, March 12, Kindiki noted that the crackdown will target vehicles transporting illicit and harmful drugs.

In the new directive, Kindiki noted that vehicles which will be clamped during the operation will be forfeited to the state and sold off to help compensate victims.

"We are also asking for forfeiture orders so that any vehicle used in transporting toxic brews and drugs is forfeited to the state and will be sold and that asset recovery will help us establish a fund where we can compensate victims of these crimes," Kindiki announced.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki speaking on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. 

According to the interior CS, the order will also target landlords renting out their properties to individuals selling toxic brews.

At the same time, Kindiki insisted that the 21-day suspension will go on, and the eradication operation will proceed uninterrupted.

"The measures announced by the Government last week on eradication of illicit liquor and narcotic drugs are irreversible and non-negotiable," he said.

"The uptake of harmful alcoholic drinks that are not up to standards and narcotic drugs is a serious national problem. Losing 20 people in one village to poisonous alcoholic drinks is equivalent to a terror attack.," he added.

Kindiki made the sentiments during a meeting with alcohol manufacturers at GSU Training School, Nairobi.

On his side, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo noted that a multi-agency team has been formed to evaluate the licensing procedure.

"A multi-agency team has been set up to conduct a fresh vetting process that underscores adherence to the requirements set by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) in the production and distribution of alcoholic beverages, to combat illegal businesses dealing in drugs and illicit brew."