Liquor stores raided for violating Covid-19 safety protocols
Police and administration officers in Thika town raided illegal liquor outlets that were ‘violating government directives’ on Covid-19 protocols and seized alcoholic drinks.
During the crackdown that targeted mainly wines and spirits shops, supermarkets and some bars in Makongeni Estate, government officials broke into scores behind Madaraka Market and the local bus station.
Led by Thika West Deputy County Commissioner Douglas Mutai and area sub-county Administrator David Nyoroku, the officers also arrested at least five people.
Total disregard
The raid came shortly after President Uhuru Kenyatta issued a directive banning the sale of alcohol in bars and eateries in a move aimed at curbing the spread of Coronavirus.
“It is unfortunate that people have ignored the Presidential directive and continued with the sale and consumption of liquor in total disregard of the Ministry of Health guidelines, yet Thika is one of the areas hard hit by the pandemic,” the DCC said.
Mutai said those arrested were later granted bond to appear in court while police are pursuing those who flee ahead of the operation.
Residents, however, claim that security officers through proxies operated many of the liquor shops, but the DCC dismissed the claim as rumours saying there was no evidence to that effect.
“I have heard the same stories, but no one has come out to give us specific information.
I am treating it as a rumour,” said the DCC who was accompanied by sub-county police commander Beatrice Kiraguri.
He said the crackdown would go on and urged members of the public to cooperate with security agencies in flushing out those behind illegal sale of alcohol in defiance of President Uhuru’s directive.
Mutai also warned drivers and other matatu operators against flouting the law and engaging in drunkenness while at work.
