This was one of the key messages by various speakers who addressed the locals during celebrations to mark this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations at Lumakanda Township primary playground.
Lugari Assistant County Commissioner (ACC), Mr. Reuben Kimosop warned residents against consumption of illicit brew, accusing the same of leading to lawlessness and major crimes involving murder, robbery, rape and defilement in the area.
“Illicit liquor dens have been identified as crime environment enablers,” pointed out Kimosop, adding area police officers had been instructed to carry out regular crackdowns on the dens.
The ACC also warned bar patrons against drinking outside the legally stipulated hours.
He further asked the locals to carefully study visitors and strangers to the area during this festive season.
“Ensure to keep a close eye on all our visitors and strangers for our own on safety,” Kimosop told the residents.
The ACC sentiments were echoed by Officer Commanding Police Division (OCPD), Mr. Bernard Macharia who reiterated the sub county’s security team recent ban on night discos and video games.
“I specifically warn bar owners against organising night events, especially discos,” said Macharia, insisting he had directed area Officer Commanding Station (OCS), William Oyugi, to suspend issuance of permits for the same.
Macharia reminded area residents to be wary of sniffer dogs that were deployed to the area a fortnight ago.
“The tracking dogs are now helping my officers in tackling criminal activities,” the OCPD noted.
On her part, area Administration Police Commandant (APC), Mrs Margaret Mwalua, urged the locals to closely network with security agencies in order to tame runaway criminal activity.
“We want you to closely work with the Nyumba Kumi, Community Policing and Peace committees to enable us to root out perpetrators of crime,” urged Mrs Mwalua.
Lugari Sub County Deputy County Commissioner (DCC), Mr. Jacob Awour nearly collapsed while inspecting the guard of honour, forcing cancellation of the inspection event.
The ACC read the presidential speech on behalf of the DCC.