The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) has expressed concern over the death of six people who consumed illegal alcoholic brew in Kirinyaga county on Tuesday.

In a statement, the Chief Executive Dr Anthony Omerikwa, expressed concern over the deaths and loss of eyesight by several other people after consuming suspicious alcoholic drinks.

“From preliminary reports, the deaths occurred as a result of consumption of an unidentified substance whose contents are yet to be established”. he said.

“As the relevant investigative agencies try to unravel the contents and source of the killer drink, Nacada wishes to caution the public on the rising cases of illicit alcohol-related deaths and illnesses and urge the public to avoid consumption of alcohol whose quality cannot be verified,” Dr Omerikwa further stated.

While sending condolence messages to families of the victims, the official said the Authority, jointly with relevant arms of government will intensify crackdowns on substandard, illicit and counterfeit alcohol and called on members of the public to support the initiative by reporting any suspected illicit trade in alcohol and drugs.

“We also on the county governments to execute their devolved licensing mandate to control the proliferation of bars and wines and spirits outlets in their respective areas, many of which do not meet the required operatin