GSU block workers from accessing tycoon's liquor firm

Workers who had come prepared to start operations were prevented by GSU from accessing the building. [File, Standard]

The anticipated opening of WOW Beverages belonging to business tycoon Humphrey Kariuki failed to take place on Monday, December 5, after armed police blocked workers from accessing the premises.

For the last four years, attempts by Kariuki to reopen his business have not been fruitful even after he obtained a court order granting him access.

The latest attempt was on Sunday when his lawyer B.M. Musyoka & Company Advocates wrote to Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Director of Public Prosecutions and Directorate of Criminal Investigations reminding the State agencies to vacate the facility.

Workers who had come prepared to start operations were prevented by General Service Unit (GSU) from accessing the building.

They called on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to intervene.

Armed with twigs, some employees led by Anthony Wangai said they depended on wages they received from the company for survival. "Most former staff have gone into depression, others are still struggling to repay loans they had borrowed from banks and saccos, while others went upcountry," noted Wangai.