Marsabit:A coordinated multi-agency security operation in Marsabit County has led to the seizure of 8,460 litres of kangara and 60 litres of chang’aa. Several illicit brewing dens were dismantled, and suspects were arrested in an intensified effort to combat illegal alcohol and substance abuse.
According to Kenya News Agency, the crackdown was spearheaded by the county and sub-county security committees of Sangante/Jaldesa and Marsabit Central, in collaboration with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and local residents. Marsabit County Commissioner Stanley Kamande stated that the operation targeted known chang’aa brewing and selling locations in Marsabit town and its environs.
Security officers, acting on public tips, raided two houses in Marsabit town used for brewing and selling illicit alcohol, arresting one suspect who is expected to be presented in court. In Sagante/Jaldesa Sub-County, the team found a homestead used as a brewing den, arresting another suspect in the act of brewing chang’aa. They confiscated 10 litres of chang’aa and 60 litres of kangara.
Kamande noted that abandoned brewing sites in the area, previously used for illicit alcohol production, were discovered. These sites contained equipment and large quantities of kangara and chang’aa. The security team destroyed the illicit products and dismantled the equipment, pledging to monitor the areas to prevent re-establishment.
The operation extended to Jirime in Marsabit Central Sub-County, where five suspected brewing dens were found in bushy areas. Although no suspects were present, officers destroyed approximately 400 litres of kangara stored in jerrycans.
Kamande emphasized the commitment of security agencies to eradicate illicit alcohol production and trade in the county. The ongoing Rapid Result Initiative (RRI) involves regular operations targeting illicit brews, with public collaboration deemed essential. He reassured residents that information shared with security agencies remains confidential.
NACADA Marsabit Coordinator Wako supported the multi-agency strategy, asserting that no area or individual involved in illegal alcohol activities would be spared. The crackdown also targets bhang and counterfeit alcohol sales, with specific areas already profiled for action. The 100-day RRI campaign has seen significant results, including the destruction of 12,000 litres of kangara in Jirime.
Wako warned that enforcement actions against illicit alcohol and substance abuse would continue, with recent arrests leading to court proceedings. He stressed the importance of these efforts in protecting young people from the detrimental effects of substance abuse.
