- Ngumbi said the move compromises government's efforts in addressing the illicit brew menace.
- He warned that any official sabotaging the government initiative through corruption will be firmly dealt with.
Image: FILE
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has alleged that some enforcement officers tasked with the ongoing nationwide crackdown on illicit brew are taking bribes.
EACC spokesperson Eric Ngumbi said they received reports that some officers are sabotaging the vetting exercise by demanding or accepting bribes.
Speaking at an event in Kirinyaga on Saturday, Ngumbi said the move compromises government's efforts in addressing the illicit brew menace.
"We have received information that some of the enforcement officers who are supposed to conduct vetting of the bar owners and operators engage in bribery instead," he said.
"Corruption has found its way in the vetting exercise that is supposed to ensure that the licenses for persons who can legally operate bars are given to the correct ones," Ngumbi added.
He claimed the bribes are to facilitate pardoning or waiving of enforcement action against bar operators who have not complied with the regulations against illicit or second-hand generation alcoholic drinks.
Ngumbi warned that any official sabotaging the government initiative through corruption will be firmly dealt with.
He said government officials leading the exercise have a responsibility to ensure the vetting is undertaken with integrity and accountability.
The spokesperson said the Commission expects traders to strictly comply with the set regulations and desist from the culture of offering bribes in a bid to escape scrutiny.
"They should comply with the regulations and report to EACC any public official attempting to extort money from them," he said.
Ngumbi pointed out that corruption and conflict of interest caused by enforcement officers operating bars contribute to the deep-rooted menace of alcoholism in the country.
He urged the National Assembly to prioritise the finalisation of the Conflict of Interest Bill currently before the House.
The anticipated new law is expected to address situations where public officials engage in the same businesses that they are supposed to regulate.
On March 6, 2024, the government declared the fight against illicit alcohol, drug and substance abuse a top national security threat.
The declaration was followed by the introduction of 25 key directives aimed at initiating crackdowns, regulations and enforcement actions across the entire demand and supply chain.
Among the 25 measures was the 21-day suspension of all 52 licenses and permits issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority and the Kenya Bureau of Standards.