The government has shut down 9,269 uncompliant liquor stores in the ongoing crackdown on illicit brews.
The closure of the premises took place between March 8 and March 31, 2024, data from the Ministry of Interior indicates.
At the same time, 150 shisha outlets were closed.
Interior CS Kithure Kindiki on March 6, outlawed the advertisement, promotion, or distribution of shisha.
The CS noted that establishments found to sell the same will be shut down.
“The importation, manufacture, sale, use, advertisement, promotion or distribution of shisha is outlawed in the country, any establishment found in breach of this provision will be shut down with immediate effect,” Kindiki said.
Earlier, Kindiki said the government is determined to lose its popularity if that is what it takes to win the battle against drugs.
“We have decided in this administration that we better lose popularity than lose this war,” he said
In a move to curb the menace, the government through the Ministry of Interior and National Administration last month announced 25 measures to curb illicit brew, drug, and substance abuse in the country.
As part of the measures, the government suspended licences for all manufacturers of second-generation alcohol.
They will have to apply afresh for the license and all existing valid licences will be vetted within 21 days.
CS Kindiki also ordered the closure of bars and clubs within the residential estates and learning institutions.
In addition to that, the CS also announced that landlords who rent out spaces for such establishments shall be held accountable.
“All landlords or premise owners shall be deemed aiders and abetters thereof and be held liable for renting out space for the establishment of bars/ wines and spirits outlets in prohibited areas pursuant to section 20(c) of the Penal Code,” Kindiki said.
As part of the measures, no bars or liquor-selling establishments would be allowed to operate beyond the set, operating hours.
CS Kindiki said any contravention of these directives shall attract punishment.
The perpetrators, he said will be fined or imprisoned as stipulated by law.
“No bars or alcoholic outlets shall be allowed to operate beyond the stipulated operation hours as provided in section 34 of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, failure to which the operator shall be fined or imprisoned as provided by law and all the drinks, and related accessories in the premises forfeited with accompanying license withdrawal,” Kindiki said.
