Reveller dies after downing ‘dry’ spirit

By Joseph Muchiri

Embu, Kenya: A liqour-drinking contest ended tragically after a participating 45-year-old teacher died after allegedly consuming excess alcohol on Monday.

The incident happened at Kiegucu village, Embu North Sub County where the deceased, Mugo wa Karinga was competing with another reveller.

Mr Mugo had taken a bet that he would drink four bottles of the illicit brew.

But there was a catch, he was to take the highly intoxicating spirit dry. He was also to receive Sh200 if he finished it.

It is on finishing the third bottle that he collapsed and started gasping for air. An eye-witness said instead of assisting the victim, the other revelers started cheering thinking he was just pretending.

“They clapped for him urging him to finish the fourth bottle. The drink is so strong that it is not consumed without water or soda,” said Martin Mukundi.

It was only after a few minutes that they realised he had fainted and rushed him to Kianjokoma dispensary but died as he was being resuscitated.