Murang’a County Commissioner (CC), Hassan Bule, has warned traders involved in the manufacture and distribution of illicit liquor, that security agencies will soon close in on them.

Bule said multi-agency security team has intensified crackdown against the toxic brew, to protect young people from the harmful effects of illegal alcohol.

Bule said illicit brews, Gender-Based Violence and other social ills, continued to threaten community safety and undermine the well-being of families, calling for concerted efforts to address the vices.

Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations in Mathioya, the Commissioner urged residents to work closely with security agencies, to identify and report those involved in illegal alcohol trade and other criminal activities.

He said the fight against illicit liquor required collective responsibility, noting that every member of society, had a role to play in promoting public safety and national development.

“Farmers, doctors, teachers and shopkeepers, all have a personal responsibility to play their roles effectively in developing this country,” he said.

Bule urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children during the ongoing school holidays, to protect them from harmful influences, crime and other anti-social activities.

He called for concerted efforts to curb teenage pregnancies and ensure all school-age children remain in school, warning that failure to supervise learners during the holidays could expose them to risky behaviour.

“Do not allow children to loiter aimlessly, especially at night. Always know where your children are,” he cautioned.

The Commissioner further reminded parents to maintain open communication with their children and work with local administrators, to address emerging social challenges within their communities.

On national examinations, Bule said only authorised personnel would be allowed into examination centres, warning against interference with the administration of the tests.

He said security arrangements would be maintained to safeguard the integrity of the examinations and ensure candidates sat their papers in a secure environment.

The County Police Commander, Kimaiyo Kemboi, warned the local residents against  engaging in criminal activities.

He said children should avoid involvement in unsafe and unnecessary parties, which may subject them to various dangers.

“Parents protect your children during this long holiday period. We understand some criminal activities are done during ‘youth come together’ events. Remember despite the long holiday, come January next year, they will be reporting back to school,” he added.

By Bernard Munyao