Police in Kisii County have intensified their crackdown on illicit alcohol, with a successful operation on Monday leading to the seizure of 20 litres of chang’aa and the destruction of 210 litres of kangara in Nyangusu sub-location, Nyamache subcounty.
The raid, conducted by officers from Nyangusu Police Station, targeted illegal brewers in the area as part of an ongoing campaign to curb the production and sale of outlawed alcoholic beverages. One suspect was arrested at the scene and subsequently arraigned at the Ogembo Law Courts for illegal possession and manufacture of chang’aa, a traditional but banned local spirit.
Kangara, a fermented substance used in brewing chang’aa, was also found in large quantities and destroyed on-site. The operation comes amid a renewed effort by law enforcement in Kisii to stem the rising tide of illicit alcohol, which has been blamed for social breakdown and health hazards in the community.
This latest crackdown follows a string of similar operations in the region, where police have previously uncovered tens of thousands of litres of illegal brews and arrested numerous suspects. The scale of the problem has alarmed local leaders and residents alike.
Community members, particularly parents and teachers, have expressed strong support for the police efforts. “These brews have torn apart so many homes. The police action gives us hope that our children can be protected from this danger,” said one relieved parent.
National leaders have also weighed in on the issue. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently decried the resurgence of illegal alcohol in areas where it had been previously curtailed. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued firm warnings to government officials who fail to act on the problem, stressing the need for accountability and decisive action.
Police have called on the public to assist in the fight against illicit brews by reporting suspicious activities. “The fight against illegal brews is
