President William Ruto has committed to fight hazardous, non-certified products, fake stamps, and illegally brewed alcohol.
While attending a church service in Baringo county, the Head of State said, in an effort to protect Kenyans from the adverse effects of illegal alcohol and products that are not KEBS-certified that those involved in such unscrupulous businesses will face consequences under his government.
According to the President, fake stamps greatly contributed to the loss of revenue and tax collection and accused people involved in such activities of failing to pay taxes.
“I want to assure you that we will fight issues to do with illegal brew. These are the people who have fake stamps and don’t pay tax. They sell illegal alcohol that is harmful to our people,” he said.
The Head of State believes that the action will, among other things, protect the vast majority of young people who, in his opinion, are the most targeted consumers in the illegal brew production industry.
“We have already taken the appropriate steps to deal with issues of illegal brews and uncertified items that are harming the lives of our young people and the people of Kenya,” said Ruto.
As part of the government’s efforts to reduce the nation’s illicit brew production, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) seized Sh40 million worth of alcoholic beverages on September 7.
According to KRA, its officers conducted a sting operation that led to the commodities being seized.
A total of 33 drums of ethanol valued at Sh16 million, 100 cartons of 10 liters of vodka priced at Sh2 million, and 5,000 fake stamps worth Sh10 million are among the items seized.
KRA has criticised the usage of fake stamps, which results in a significant loss of revenue.
Additionally, the rise in illegal alcohol has endangered the lives of many Kenyans, especially those who cannot afford to purchase pricey, high-quality alcohol.