CS Kindiki Orders Closure of Bars and Clubs in Residential Areas and Schools – In a significant move, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki declared a crackdown on bars and clubs situated in residential areas and schools, addressing the escalating issue of illicit substances. This announcement, made on Wednesday, follows stringent measures to counter the trade, consumption, and abuse of illegal alcohol, narcotics, and psychotropic substances, now identified as one of Kenya’s top five national security threats.
The Decision
The decision came after a meeting with regional and county National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and security teams, including county police commanders from the Kenya Police Service, Administration Police Service, and Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
Kindiki unequivocally stated that county governments deemed any licenses for premises, including bars and other outlets, issued contrary to the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act provisions, specifically regarding premises near residential areas and educational institutions, as null and void. County security teams are mandated to immediately shut down and seize such premises.
Directive to Landlords
Adding another layer to the directives, Kindiki announced that landlords or premise owners renting space for bars, wines and spirits outlets in prohibited areas will be deemed aiders and abetters and held liable for their actions.
Furthermore, new directives include the immediate seizure of all vehicles and buildings involved in the storage, manufacturing, and trafficking of illegal drugs, illicit brews, and alcohol, classifying them as government property.
Ban on Shisha
In his continued address, Kindiki stressed the prohibition of shisha importation, manufacture, sale, use, advertisement, promotion, or distribution in the country. Establishments found in breach of this provision will face immediate closure.
As part of the comprehensive crackdown, Kindiki directed county security teams to shut down and destroy illicit manufacturing installations, distilleries, and agrovets. County Security Committees, armed with the approved list of licensed manufacturers, distillers, pharmacists, and agro vets, are tasked with executing this directive within ten days.
Emphasizing accountability, Kindiki warned that County Security Committee Members would be held liable and subject to disciplinary action if unlicensed manufacturing installations, distilleries, agrovets, or chemists operate within their jurisdictions.
Community Involvement
To foster community involvement, a designated toll-free line (1192) has been established for reporting complaints and concerns related to the manufacture, trade, transportation, storage, and consumption of illegal alcohol, drugs, and other substances.
Additionally, In a sweeping move, the Kenya Revenue Authority and Kenya Bureau of Standards have immediately suspended all licenses and certification permits for second-generation alcohol and alcoholic beverage distillers and manufacturers. Additionally, a thorough vetting process within 21 days for existing valid licenses will allow premises to resume operations only upon fresh approval.
In conclusion, Kenya’s decisive action against illicit substances signifies a commitment to national security and public well-being. Lastly, these comprehensive measures aim to eradicate the manufacturing, trade, and consumption of illegal substances, emphasizing the need for collective support and community engagement in achieving a safer and healthier society. – CS Kindiki Orders Closure of Bars and Clubs
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