Names and locations illicit brewers and bhang peddlers in Thika East Sub-County have been formally handed security teams in Kiambu County, ratcheting up crackdown on runaway crime in central Kenya

During a charged security meeting on Wednesday in Thika, locals presented the list to Thika East Deputy County Commissioner Margaret Mwaniki. The residents accused the suspects of flooding the area with illicit alcohol and cannabis sativa, which destroys families after luring young people into addiction.

The residents alleged that some of the suspects named have been operating with the protection of rogue police officers. The police protection makes it easy for the trade to thrive despite repeated complaints.

They alleged that some police officers tip off that suspects before raids, for which they paid bribes to look the other way as crimes are committed. The residents vowed to cooperate fully with authorities to ensure thorough investigations and prosecutions, saying the era of impunity must come to an end.

Mwaniki warned both the suspects and police officers found colluding with drug peddlers that decisive action would be taken against them. She said police officers accused of shielding criminals to immediately desist or face disciplinary measures. The administrator said internal investigations would be launched and assured residents that no one would be spared if found culpable.

Thika East Deputy Sub-County Police Commander Philes Waweru told wananchi to report any officer suspected of corruption directly to the officer commanding station without delay. He emphasised that swift reporting would allow action to be taken promptly.

Area DCI James Wanyoike appealed for continued public cooperation and assured the residents that informants’ identities would be protected. He said the crackdown would target not only brewers and drug peddlers but also their networks and financiers.

On the safety of schoolchildren, Mwaniki directed buses transporting students be properly registered and operate as school transport. She warned that private cars ferrying students would face scrutiny.

She also expressed concerns over reports of inappropriate conduct by some drivers and said compliance checks would be intensified to safeguard learners.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Muoki Charles