Kindiki puts politicians on notice over interference with illicit alcohol crackdown
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has warned that politics should be kept away from interfering with the government’s intensified crackdown on illicit alcohol and narcotics cartels, saying enforcement operations will remain intelligence-led and free from political influence. Speaking in Karen, Nairobi, on Wednesday, Kindiki said the government had stepped up efforts to dismantle criminal networks…
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has cautioned against politicians meddling in the government's intensified campaign against illicit alcohol and narcotics cartels, emphasizing that enforcement will remain intelligence-driven and free from political influence. Speaking in Karen, Nairobi on Wednesday, Kindiki announced a surge in efforts to dismantle criminal networks involved in the production, distribution, and sale of illicit alcohol and drugs.
The crackdown will be executed through covert intelligence operations under a centralized multi-agency command, with security and regulatory agencies collaborating to uncover and disrupt criminal networks.
Kindiki stated that the fight against illicit alcohol and drugs will be driven by intelligence, be covert, and ensure no political interference. The government aims to tighten regulations on second-generation alcohol manufacturers due to concerns about public health, environmental, security, and quality standards. Out of the 36 suspended licenses in 2024 for non-compliance, eight were withdrawn, while 26 compliant companies will undergo fresh inspections immediately.
Additionally, the government plans to strengthen control measures on ethanol imports and usage, a key ingredient in alcohol production. New legislative measures are projected to be recommended within a month to tighten regulations on ethanol imports and impose harsher penalties on those engaging in alcohol adulteration or diverting ethanol for industrial purposes.
The government will also focus on illicit alcohol producers operating within local communities and urban areas, warning that their networks will be identified and dismantled.
To enhance coordination, Kindiki introduced a Multi-Sectoral High-Level Team chaired by the Deputy President, meeting bi-weekly. This team will comprise government agencies, industry representatives, and local communities to oversee enforcement, identify criminal cartels, and support the rehabilitation of victims affected by alcohol and drug abuse.
The government's zero-tolerance stance on illicit alcohol and narcotics will not be compromised by political or other forms of interference, ensuring the success of the intensified operation aimed at dismantling illicit alcohol and drug networks.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
