- All of them are undergoing processing for arraignment, the authority CEO said.
- The crackdown was conducted in Bamburi, Kisauni and Mombasa CBD by a multi-agency team.
Image: HANDOUT
At least 15 have been arrested in Mombasa as Nacada embarked on a nationwide compliance crackdown on alcohol dispensing outlets starting in the coastal city.
All of them are undergoing processing for arraignment, the authority CEO said.
The multi-agency operation comes in the wake of sustained government suppression initiatives aimed at firmly dealing with the alcohol and drug abuse challenge in the country.
Speaking during the crackdown in Bamburi, Kisauni, and Mombasa CBD, Nacada CEO Dr Anthony Omerikwa said their goal is to protect the public, especially vulnerable groups like the youth, from the dangers of unregulated alcohol outlets.
“This crackdown will help ensure compliance with the law, curb illicit trade and reduce the harmful effects of alcohol abuse,” he said.
The Alcoholic Drinks Control Act (ADCA) 2010 mandates the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse to enforce laws regulating alcohol distribution and sale.
Omerikwa said by enforcing the law, authorities can curb illegal sales, reduce the availability of harmful alcoholic products, and ensure that outlets comply with legal standards.
He said the crackdowns on alcohol dispensing outlets are an effective strategy in the campaign against alcohol and drug abuse since many of the outlets sell alcohol to minors, operate without licences, or stock illicit brew.
“In total, we visited 14 establishments within Bamburi, Kisauni, and the Central Business District areas of Mombasa county, and cumulatively 15 suspects were placed in custody for flouting various requirements of the regulations and laws related to alcohol dispensing outlets,” the CEO said.
The government on March 6 declared illicit alcohol, drug, and substance abuse a top national security threat.
It followed a series of incidents where some Kenyans lost their lives while others went blind after consuming illicit liquor.
Nacada has, as part of its compliance enforcement efforts said it will shut down all alcohol dispensing outlets and billboards situation within 300 meters of all learning institutions.
Omerikwa said the billboards undermine the campaign against alcohol and drug abuse by normalising the consumption of alcohol and portraying it as an appealing and glamorous choice to young people.