President William Ruto has pledged government support to cover the burial expenses of three victims who tragically lost their lives after consuming toxic illicit alcohol in Lanet, Nakuru County.
The announcement was confirmed by Bahati MP Irene Njoki, following the incident that claimed the lives of the individuals between December 22 and December 23.
Two of the victims succumbed while receiving treatment at the Nakuru County Teaching and Referral Hospital, while the third was declared dead on Saturday and taken to the morgue.
As investigations into the cause of the deaths continue, authorities are ramping up efforts to trace and eliminate the source of the deadly brew.
In a related statement, Interior and National Coordination Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to combating the production and distribution of unsafe alcoholic substances. He pointed to a multi-agency enforcement program launched in March 2024, which includes a robust 25-point action plan targeting illicit alcohol.
Omollo revealed that of the 29 active second-generation alcohol manufacturers in the country, only two were initially compliant with regulatory standards. After thorough vetting by 10 agencies, including NACADA, KEBS, and KRA, 13 additional manufacturers received licenses.
During the festive season, Omollo called on Kenyans to take an active role in combating substance abuse within their communities. “This is a collective responsibility, and I urge all Kenyans to remain vigilant in safeguarding the wellbeing of their families and communities,” he emphasized.
This tragic incident has reignited discussions on the urgency of addressing illicit alcohol, with authorities and community leaders urging swift action to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
