Kisumu residents have been warned against the consumption of illicit brews allegedly smuggled into the city through porous borders.
County Commissioner John Elungata said unlicensed alcohol was finding its way in Kisumu from the neighbouring countries.
Speaking on Tuesday in Kisumu Town, Elungata directed police officers to be vigilant and deal firmly with those peddling drugs and alcohols. He said such illicit were not fit for human consumption and urged the public to be vigilant to prevent unnecessary deaths and crimes.
“We are telling residents to be wary of such drinks which are not licensed and approved by Kebs to avoid unnecessary deaths during festive season,” he said.
Elungata said they have established those who are behind the illegal business and vowed to arrest them.
The brews are reportedly smuggled from Uganda and Tanzania through the borders and Lake Victoria, he said.
Elungata said the government has declared total war on drugs and as security agents they will not relent to arrest the perpetrators. He added that they have formed surveillance unit that will intensify patrols at the border and in the lake to nab any illicit alcohol.
He warned that he will not hesitate to take action against chiefs and police officers who are allegedly collecting protection fee from illicit brew dealers.
“Anybody busy minting money without considering the health of Kenyans will not be tolerated,” he said.
He also warned drivers against driving while drunk saying NTSA will be on roads top deal with culprits.
The commissioner also directed entertainment joints, shopping malls and churches to enhance security at their premises.
He decried the rate at which most of the youths have been rendered unproductive by drinking killer brew.
Elungata urged the youth to shun the brews, form groups and get money from youth kitties from national and county government to empower themselves.