Efforts to fight illicit brews gains momentum

Homa Bay,

Friday September 29, 2023

KNA by Davis Langat

Chiefs drawn from five locations in Kabondo West in Kabondo Kasipul constituency have stepped up efforts to wipe out illicit brews in an operation dubbed operation pombe out.

Following the operation, 2,570 liters of kangara and 47 liters of distilled chang’aa were impounded and destroyed early this week.

 The operation pombe out campaign brings together the local chiefs Dickson Samba (Kasewe), Joseph Ndege (Ramba), Charles Dete (Kodhoch West), Judith Gumbo (Ramula) and Michael Aoro (Kodumo). 

The administrators said their agenda was to reduce the crime rates by wiping out illicit drugs and alcohol in the ward.

Kasewe location chief said they were sending a strong message to illicit brew dealers in Kabondo West ward that they will not escape the network. "The crackdown will continue to ensure we stamp out trading in outlawed drugs,” Samba said.

Speaking to the press Friday, Samba warned perpetrators of illegal alcohol that their days are numbered.

He added that lives of many youths have been destroyed because of indulging in drunkenness.

The operation saw the security officers arrested yesterday two suspects linked to chang’aa business.

“Some people take advantage of the unemployment situation to destroy our youths. The perpetrators make it easy for youths to access alcohol and other drugs,” he added.

Gumbo said indulgence in alcohol and other drug abuse has destroyed families which is forms the pillar of the society.

She said many disputes and conflicts amongst family members were linked to alcohol and drug abuse. 

“The rising cases of school drop outs and family conflicts in Kabondo West ward are linked to alcoholism. We’re striving to restore good moral values among our youths by eradicating illicit alcohol,” Gumbo said.

Dete urged members of the public to cooperate with them by volunteering information on the location of changaa dens. 

Recently, Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan said the government will reward Chiefs who succeed in wiping out illicit brews in their areas of jurisdiction.

He said drug abuse was a major contributor to the high prevalence of HIV infections among the youth. 

Lilan said the fight against illicit brews requires collaboration between security officers and the public to succeed.

Courtesy; KNA