Extended bar operating hours cited as a threat to security in West Pokot

By Wilberforce Netya

Kapengria, Kenya:  Extended bar operating hours has been cited as a threat to security in Makutano and Kapenguria townships in West Pokot County.

The County Commissioner Peter Okwanyo said all bars in the area should have restricted  operating hours so that security could be enhanced.

 He pointed out that such alcohol selling and drinking points harbour criminals who pretend to be enjoying their drinks as they plan their criminal activities.

 “I have talked to the governor and we have agreed on how to fight insecurity. No one should be given license to operate bars for 24 hours since it contributes to insecurity,” said Okwanyo.

 Mr. Okwanyo also warned illicit liquor brewers and their clients disclosing that police officers will be conducting frequent patrols and those found abetting the vice would be arrested and prosecuted.

He was speaking yesterday at Makutano town where he addressed over 500 chiefs and their assistants before launching the Nyumba Kumi and Rapid Results Initiatives (RRI).

The commissioner who is on a tour of the county for similar launches in the sub counties asked chiefs and their assistants to be alert to control crime in their areas of jurisdiction.

Okwanyo further disclosed that some secondary school students were abusing a drug dubbed Kuber and cautioned traders against selling the substance.

 He said security officers were equipped and much determined to end such vices that contribute to high rate of insecurity in the region.

 West Pokot OCPD Mr Macharia noted that most of the crimes committed in the region were fuelled by drunkenness.

 Macharia appealed to the local administrators to work hard and ensure they curb brewing and selling of illicit brews in their areas.

 The top brass county security officers were speaking shortly after witnessing the flagging off of 12 new security vehicles at the county governor’s office.

 The vehicles were given out by the government to help boost security in the region through enhanced frequent security patrols.