POLICE NAB 26 SUSPECTS IN ISIOLO ILLEGAL BREW OPERATION

Twenty-six suspects were arrested yesterday following a multi-agency operation that uncovered several illegal brewing dens in the heart of Isiolo Town.

During the crackdown, police seized 150 litres of molasses, 100 litres of muratina, 590 litres of ndume, and various brewing equipment. Two suspects linked to the illegal brewing activities were taken into custody, while 24 others were arrested for consuming the illicit brew.

Isiolo County Police Commander Isaac Sang said the brewers were using hazardous chemicals, including insecticides, in the production process, posing a serious threat to public health.

Isiolo County Commissioner Chaunga Mwachaunga said the operation is part of a broader campaign that will also target the trafficking and abuse of bhang and cocaine, which remain prevalent in the county.

According to National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) Coordinator Alice Mwangi, the operation was the result of coordinated efforts among government agencies to combat drug and substance abuse. She noted that many young people in the county have been negatively affected by the widespread use of drugs and illicit alcohol.

Authorities have pledged to intensify enforcement measures to curb the production, distribution, and consumption of illegal substances across the county.