Four Dead, 8 Hospitalised After Consuming Illicit Liquor in Migori

Police in Migori county are probing an incident in which four people were confirmed dead and eight others hospitalised on allegations of consuming illicit brew. 

The tragedy happened in Kubweye village, Kuria West sub-county in Migori County. 

Among the four who are reported dead are a seller of illicit liquor and a brewer who are said to have consumed the liquor.

Those who consumed the illicit liquor are said to have started complaining of poor vision, breathing problems and talking difficulties.

All the victims had been rushed to two hospitals in Mabera town where the four were pronounced dead on arrival, Kubweye village elder Patel Matiko Nyamohanga said. 

Kuria West police boss Cleti Kimaiyo confirmed the incident and said the other eight are in critical condition.

“Four of the eight have been referred to Migori Referral Hospital. We have launched investigations over the incident,” Kimaiyo said.

Residents who spoke to the media called for the need to tame the rising cases of illicit brew in the area.

Many complained that many drinking joints are in the area, a matter that caused the area to lag behind in development.

The case comes even as Deputy President Rigathio Gachagua intensifies the crackdown on illicit alcohol in the country.

The fight which began in the Mt Kenya region has seen several bars closed and new guidelines set to contain the sale of illicit brew.