Residents of Kamangu have taken to the streets in protest over the rising sale of illicit brews and hard narcotics in their neighbourhood, blaming a local bar for endangering lives and disrupting the community.
The demonstrations, which drew dozens of concerned residents, come amid heightened worry following the closure of AIC Churches and Moi Girls Kamangu Senior School. Community members say the bar suspected of selling illegal alcohol and drugs has left four people dead, ruined families, and pushed vulnerable youth toward a life of hopelessness.
Kikuyu Deputy County Commissioner Charles Laboso confirmed that his administration intends to shut down the establishment. “We are taking immediate action to close the bar. I am calling on the Kiambu County Government to revoke its licence to prevent further harm to our residents,” he said.
Locals expressed frustration over the lack of timely intervention, highlighting how the bar’s proximity to schools and churches makes the situation worse. “Our children are exposed to drugs and alcohol daily. We cannot sit by while our community is destroyed,” one resident said.
The protestors urged authorities to enforce stricter measures against illegal brews and strengthen community policing. They also called for a wider crackdown on the sale of hard narcotics in Kikuyu Constituency to safeguard children and youth from falling prey to substance abuse.
Deputy Commissioner Laboso reassured the public that coordinated efforts between national and county authorities are underway to ensure the bar is shut down permanently. He added that ongoing monitoring and community engagement will continue to prevent similar incidents from recurring.
The Kiambu County Government has yet to officially respond to the calls for revocation of the bar’s licence. Residents say they will maintain pressure until decisive action is taken to restore safety and protect the youth in Kamangu.
