馃嚢馃嚜KenyaEast Africa
Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat warns illicit alcohol is now a national security threat in Kenya
via Tuko3 min read
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat informed Kenyan lawmakers that illicit alcohol has evolved from a public health concern into a national security threat. Appearing before the National Assembly's Public Petitions Committee, Lagat stated that the illegal trade is increasingly linked to organized crime, including corruption, drug trafficking, money laundering, and gender-based violence. He emphasized that the production and distribution of illicit brews are now deeply intertwined with serious criminal activities that threaten the country's social and economic stability. The National Police Service, represented by Lagat, has intensified intelligence-led crackdowns through multi-agency operations, strengthened community policing, and is seizing and destroying illicit brews and equipment. Broader strategic measures include enhancing border controls, strengthening anti-corruption efforts, and pursuing regulatory reforms. Public awareness campaigns are also being conducted to educate Kenyans on the dangers of consuming illicit alcoholic beverages. Lagat reaffirmed the National Police Service's commitment to protecting public health and safety through sustained action against those involved in the illegal trade, pledging continued collaboration with the National Assembly and other stakeholders. This comes as police in Nairobi's Starehe Sub-County recently recovered 800 litres of Kangara and 33 litres of Chang'aa in an operation in Ngomongo.
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