Kenyan Government Declares Nationwide Crackdown On Illicit Drugs

The Kenyan Government has declared a nationwide crackdown on counterfeit alcoholic drinks and drugs ahead of the festive season.

The National Police Service, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), the Ministry of Health, the Kenya Revenue Authority, the Kenya Bureau of Standards, the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, and county governments will all be involved in the exercise, which is being coordinated by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration.

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said during a consultative meeting at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) on Wednesday ahead of the crackdown that the crackdown was timely because the country traditionally experiences a spike in the consumption of illicit alcohol and drugs during the festive season.

“This crackdown is therefore timely as it mitigates the potential harm wrought on our people by illicit brews and counterfeit alcohol that is mostly traded in non-compliant premises.

"Through this exercise, we can protect our youth from the devastating effects of alcohol and drug abuse,” he said.

The PS, however, stressed that the crackdown will only target illegal alcohol and drugs while protecting licensed and legitimate alcoholic beverage businesses.

“Government is not against legitimate alcohol business.

"Licensed trade in legit alcohol is an important economic activity that will be accorded the necessary support and security,” he added.

Previously, the government conducted similar crackdowns through the NACADA-coordinated Rapid Result Initiatives (RRI) program.

Concerns raised as a result of the exercises include the proliferation of substandard and counterfeit alcohol, the sale of brands with fake standardization stamps, and the operation of outlets with deplorable health standards.

Omollo urged national governments to carry out their constitutionally mandated roles in liquor licensing and drug control.

“Whilst we have seen commitment in several counties, lax administration of these responsibilities undermines the fight against drugs and illicit alcohol.

"We will sustain engagements with relevant counties to redress this concern.”

Japhet Koome, the Inspector General of the National Police Service, who was also present, warned that his officers will have a zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving.

“Those drug barons out there, let them get the message.

"There will be no negotiations. We are already in festive mode. The festive mode comes with excitement.”

He added: “Drivers tend to drink and drive. We are not going to allow it. For speeding, we will not tolerate it.”

The meeting, which was also attended by all Regional Commissioners, follows President William Ruto's recent directive to strengthen the fight against the production, consumption, and sale of illicit alcohol and drugs.