Kisii Leads National Crackdown On Illicit Brew And Hard Drugs

By Elizabeth Angira

Kisii County has emerged as a leading county in Kenya in the crackdown on illicit brews and hard drugs, as the government intensifies efforts to dismantle criminal networks linked to substance abuse.

According to the 2025 police report, authorities seized more than 800,000 litres of kangara during the ongoing crackdown.

Speaking during the opening of the Igare Police Station in Kisii County, Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting illegal brews, drugs, and criminal gangs.

Lagat noted that illicit alcohol remains widespread in parts of the county, with illegal outlets operating in close proximity to homes.

“I’m told that in some areas, every five or ten meters you will find a point selling illicit brew. Banditry, drugs, and substance abuse are destroying our society. We must fight this menace head-on,” he said.

He called on police officers, communities, parents, religious institutions, and leaders to work together to combat alcohol and drug abuse, warning that the vice is eroding the country’s social fabric.

“These issues are bringing down the family fabric and the society fabric. If we do not fight them squarely, we will not have a society in the future. The future will be bleak,” Lagat warned.

The Deputy Inspector General said the government is deploying all necessary resources to tackle criminal gangs and drug abuse, citing President William Ruto’s firm stance during the New Year celebrations on the need to eliminate illicit brews and drugs.

He urged parents to engage their children and youths in open conversations about substance abuse, describing young people as the “critical mass of our future.”

“Let us take this fight to our sitting rooms and bedrooms. Let us talk to our children and guide them,” he added.

Lagat also appealed for unity and teamwork as the country enters 2026, urging citizens to look out for one another and strengthen community bonds.

“If we move together as one, there are many gains. The unity and collaboration demonstrated here today can be replicated across the county,” he said.

He attributed recent successes in cracking down on illicit brews to collaboration between the public and the police, noting that intelligence shared by residents has made it easier for officers to track and arrest offenders.

“Illicit brew is a menace. If we do not stand firm, we risk losing tomorrow’s generation. We may end up with zombie graduates instead of sober, productive citizens,” Lagat cautioned.

He further urged individuals who engage youths as goons to instead involve them in meaningful economic activities.

Nyanza Regional Police Commander Evelyn Nyamohanga echoed Lagat’s remarks, emphasizing that security starts with individuals and communities.

“Police officers cannot be everywhere. Safety begins with you,” Nyamohanga said.

She explained that crime occurs when three elements come together: a target, opportunity, and motivation, noting that community vigilance plays a key role in neutralizing these factors.

“We want to assure Kisii County residents of our commitment to work with you to address these security challenges,” she said.

Kisii County Police Commander Ronald Kirui revealed that most cases handled in courts across the county are linked to illicit brews and alcohol abuse.

“Whether it is murder, assault, or other conflicts with the law, many cases emanate from illicit brew. Once we address this, we will have a more secure county,” Kirui said.

Nyamohanga also warned youths against being used as tools for crime, urging them to avoid being exploited.

“Do not allow yourselves to be used as cheap labour. Those who use you disappear, but you are left to face the consequences,” she cautioned.

The event was also attended by Bobasi MP Innocent Obiri, who lauded the opening of the Igare Police Station, saying it will play a key role in curbing criminal activities and improving security in the area.