By MOSE SAMMY
The National Authority for Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) has advised traders who deal in illicit alcoholic beverages to pull them off shelves or face dire consequences.
A tough talking John Mututho, the Nacada chairman, also warned manufacturers of such products to shut down their production plants.
Mututho those who engage in the illegal liquor business to expect the “real bomb”.
“…all those who have been responsible for packaging and sale of illicit brews, those who knowingly sell drinks that maim and kill people by giving them big names like ‘Michael Walker’ and others shall face the full force of the law,” he warned.
Speaking at a fundraiser in Kabiruini Catholic Parish, Mathira, Nyeri County, Mututho told those involved in the illegal business that they risked serving up to 10 years in jail or paying a Sh10 million fine, if convicted.
He revealed that a special unit to deal with illicit brews will be in place by next week, and told bootleggers to prepare for a very cold Christmas and festive season behind bars.
The Nacada boss also said that all alcoholic drinks available in the local market, including imported ones, shall be subjected to standardisation and laboratory checks to ascertain whether they are fit for consumption.
“Nacada is prepared scientifically, physically and legally in its fight against any illegal drinks in the market and practices associated with the same,” he added.
He reiterated that ‘Mututho laws’ were back and that the official drinking timetable still remains.
The law provides that bars should operate from 5pm to 11pm on weekdays and from 2pm to 11pm on weekends and 7pm to 3am for nightclubs.
smose@standardmedia.co.ke.
