- The DP has on several occasions reiterated that the fight against illicit alcohol and drugs will not relent.
- On March 6, 2024, the government declared the fight against illicit alcohol, drug and substance abuse a top national security threat.
Image: DPCS
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has warned against drug abuse in the Coast region.
Gachagua said that drug abuse in the Coast region has been a menace that needs to be highlighted.
The DP said the government will deal conclusively with drug abuse in the Coast region.
"Let us not run away from the truth. There is a big challenge of hard drug abuse in Coast Province. That is the truth and we have declared war on drugs and illicit brew," Gachagua said on Thursday during an Iftar dinner in Malindi.
"I want to tell the barons who are filthy rich, some of whom are politicians and businessmen and have made billions of shillings from selling drugs to our children, that God will punish them one day."
Gachagua called on the religious leaders from the Muslim community to support the war on drugs and alcohol abuse.
"They are making money while they kill our children. We shall deal with you. they can run but they will not hide," he said.
The DP has on several occasions reiterated that the fight against illicit alcohol and drugs will not relent and warned dealers that they have nowhere to hide.
He assured security officers involved in the crackdown that the government will protect them and is fully behind them in the war to eradicate toxic liquor and drugs.
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 licences and permits issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority and the Kenya Bureau of Standards.
The enforcement measures included a review of the legal framework applicable to the sector.
There was also the imposition of penalties on public or private officials who contribute to the death or material injury of persons through the sale of dangerous alcohol, drugs, or other substances.
Interior CS Kithure Kindiki announced the measures after more than 20 people died from the consumption of illicit alcohol in Kirinyaga County.
Kindiki said the use of illicit brew, drugs and substance abuse majorly among teenagers, the youth and even the elderly, is now not only a grave social concern but also a threat to the wellbeing and sustainable future of the country.