Police officers injured in war on illicit brew

Kakamega OCPD Joseph Chebii (in front) leads an operation to confiscate illicit brew in Kakamega East on September 12, 2015. Two police officers were injured during a similar operation on May 4, 2018. PHOTO | ISAAC WALE | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • The residents accused the officers of harassment and extortion.

  • OCPD Chebii raised concerns about the safety of the liquor that is being manufactured in Uganda.

An operation to end illicit brew trade turned tragic after two police officers were attacked in Kakamega.

The Administration Police officers were seriously wounded by dealers and patrons at Muranda village in Shinyalu Sub-County on Friday.

One of the officers is admitted at Kakamega County Referral Hospital.

"One officer was seriously injured while a second one suffered hand injuries after they were attacked by the mob bearing crude weapons.

"The one who was seriously injured is admitted at Kakamega County Referral Hospital," Kakamega OCPD Joseph Chebii said.

BRIBERY

Mr Chebii added that investigations have began.

"The main attacker is a known criminal and we are doing everything possible to arrest him. Investigations are under way and those responsible for the attacks must face the law."

Residents accused the officers of harassment and extortion.

"They always come in the morning to collect money and allow brewers and sellers to operate freely.

"We don’t understand why they again came in the evening to arrest them," a resident said.

POLICE ID

They also claimed that the plain-clothed officers did not identify themselves.

"We thought they were thugs that is why we attacked them. When they identified themselves, we felt sorry and walked away," another local said.

OCPD Chebii raised concerns about the safety of the liquor that is being manufactured in Uganda.

"Most of the second generation liquor is finding its way into the country from Uganda through the porous borders. It is lethal and increasingly claiming lives, especially among the youth." he warned.