Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has vowed a no-compromise approach against security officers found colluding with illegal alcohol networks, warning that both rogue officers and community members aiding the illicit trade will face strict disciplinary action.

Speaking in Kiambu on Monday, August 18, 2025, Murkomen said some officers who have been stationed in one area for extended periods have grown too familiar with their surroundings, making them vulnerable to compromise and, in some cases, becoming part of the very cartels they are meant to dismantle.

“We will be going to the local community to ensure we take very firm decisions against the officers and the locality, and disciplinary measures will be instituted against them. Officers who have stayed in Kiambu for far too long, became familiar with the environment and have become part and parcel of this business will also be dealt with,” he said.

Murkomen disclosed that he has instructed the Deputy Inspector General of Police to enforce regular transfers to prevent officers from becoming entrenched in local communities where they may be compromised.

He added that a strict system of reward and punishment will follow, with high-performing officers recognized and underperforming or compromised officers facing consequences.

“I have told the Deputy Inspector General of Police that regular transfers must be conducted to ensure that no officer becomes so familiar with their local environment that they are compromised in terms of service delivery. Reward and punishment must follow those who do a good job will be recognized, while those who perform poorly will face consequences,” he noted.

The Cabinet Secretary also raised concern over the unchecked licensing of bars and outlets selling alcoholic beverages, highlighting that many establishments registered as restaurants operate as bars around the clock, supplying spirits linked to the rise of second-generation alcohol.

He accused county governments of misusing licensing powers, issuing permits indiscriminately, and contributing to the proliferation of drinking establishments in small towns and urban centers.

“We are very concerned that there is a wanton misuse of these county licenses to give licenses to every Tom, Dick and Harry in every corner of small centers and towns. It is a matter that, in more populated counties like Kiambu and Nairobi, we really have to focus on, particularly through the Council of Governors,” he said.

Murkomen said the Interior Ministry will step up collaboration with counties to tighten licensing regulations and ensure compliance with operational guidelines.

He added that consultations with other counties, including Murang’a, will be held to develop joint proposals aimed at curbing illicit alcohol and protecting communities from the social harms of unregulated consumption.

“This is particularly concerning in more populated counties like Kiambu and Nairobi, and it is an issue we must address in collaboration with the Council of Governors,” Murkomen concluded.