By Antynet Ford
Senior law enforcement officers in Mwea East Kirinyaga County have been recalled after thirteen people died and others went blind after consuming illicit liquor.
A statement by the Interior and National Government Affairs Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki further indicated that investigations on the matter have commenced and necessary actions shall be taken against the officers involved.
“The government has recalled senior law enforcement and National Government Administration officers who by conduct or misconduct may have contributed to the recent loss of lives occasioned by the consumption of an illicit toxic brew in Kirinyaga County, Central Region,” stated CS Kindiki.
“Relevant agencies are directed to immediately initiate inquiries upon which appropriate administrative action will ensue on those found culpable.”
The owner of the bar was arrested and is being detained for twenty days as the police proceed with investigations.
The Baricho Law Courts ruled that John Muriithi Karaya alias ‘California’ be held at the Kiamaciri Police Station, while the matter was scheduled for mentioning on March 7, 2024.
Six members of the same family died on the said day while five others went blind after consuming illicit liquor at the California bar belonging to the suspect. Seven more people later succumbed while undergoing treatment at various local hospitals in the county, where at least six others also underwent treatment.
The arrest and prosecution of the bar owner came as residents raised concerns over complacency by police and the local administration over their repeated complaints about the activities at the bar.