A fresh government operation targeting illicit alcohol and drugs is set to begin in Keringet, Nakuru County, after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the deployment of a special police team to lead an intensive three-week crackdown aimed at dismantling the illegal trade.
Addressing residents during a public baraza in Keringet on Saturday, July 25, 2026, Murkomen said the operation had been planned jointly with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and would be handled by officers brought in from Nairobi to ensure effective enforcement.
“We have agreed with the Inspector General that a special team of police officers will be deployed from Nairobi to stay here for three weeks and fight illicit alcohol. Once they complete the operation, they will be replaced by another fresh team,” Murkomen said.
He said the officers had been instructed to pursue all those involved in the manufacture, sale and distribution of illegal alcohol and drugs, including chang'aa, sachet liquor and cannabis, adding that the exercise would continue until the area is cleared of the illegal activities.
Murkomen also announced changes within the local police ranks, saying some officers had overstayed in the area and were no longer effectively carrying out their responsibilities because of their own involvement with alcohol.
“All officers who have stayed here for a long time and have been drinking instead of working will be taken for rehabilitation. Twenty new officers will be deployed here, and the Inspector General will implement the changes within the next two weeks,” he said.
He said the deployment of new officers is expected to strengthen enforcement efforts and restore discipline within the local security team during the operation.
The Cabinet Secretary further revealed that security in the area would receive a boost through the addition of another police vehicle. He said the OCPD's office would receive the vehicle within two weeks to reinforce policing and improve response to criminal activities.
Murkomen also put those involved in the illicit alcohol trade on notice, saying the government would no longer tolerate the business.
During the public meeting, residents identified more than 10 people whom they claimed were involved in brewing illicit alcohol, alleging that the activity had continued openly despite the presence of security officers.
“I want to tell all those brewing illicit alcohol that today is your last day in that business. Starting tomorrow, any police officer on duty who finds you continuing with the trade should arrest you immediately and take you to court,” Murkomen declared.
He said the operation would combine stronger policing, changes within the local security team and firm enforcement of the law as the government seeks to stamp out illicit alcohol and drug trafficking in Keringet.