Bar owners urge Government to investigate killer brew deaths

Murang'a county hotels and bar owners association officials Simon Jogoo (left) and James Waweru addressing a press conference seeking tough measure to control the liquor brands. [PHOTO:BONIFACE GIKANDI/Standard]

The national government has been urged to investigate the deaths of four people who allegedly drank illicit alcohol.

Yesterday, the Murang'a County Bars and Hotels Owners Association called on County Commissioner John Elungata to order a probe to establish the actual cause of death.

The association's chairman, James Waweru, and his deputy Simon Jogoo said only a probe would shed light on the incidents.

Bar owners also want liquor manufacturers to monitor their products in the market in a move aimed at exposing killer brews.

"There is need for a scientific laboratory in the county to test alcohol to end speculation that the brews are associated with death," said Mr Waweru in Murang'a town.

At Kabirwa market, four people reportedly died after drinking alcohol under the brand name 'Saitan'.

Bar owners have also been directed to buy supplies from recognised distributors to avoid briefcase merchants who sell counterfeits.