BY IRENE ONYANGO.
Alcohol maker Patiala Distillers Limited has accused the police of standing watch as its alcohol worth Sh6 million was being destroyed.
While dismissing claims that it distills illicit spirit, the firm wants the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) to take action against police officers who witnessed the destruction of 34,000 bottles of spirit.
The alcohol was destroyed at the Mathira East acting Deputy County Commissioners offices on Monday and the firm through lawyer Danstan Omari protested against the conduct of police officers for standing by and watching as their products were destroyed by citizens, led by Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi and Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatangi.
Omari called out the politicians who led the residents in destroying the liquor, attributing their action to business rivalry since the distillery had met all the government requirements and certification before distributing their products.
He further stated that business was facing competition and depending on the quality and customer satisfaction, different individuals prefer different outlets hence the politicians should not interfere with private entities.
“The continous harassment faced by our client is very unnecessary. How can the so called leaders of the public lead the same public to destroy another person’s business which has employed thousands of Kenyans?,” argued Omari.
In the letter to IPOA, Omari accused the two legislators of using the police to instill fear to the proprietors of the alcohol making firm.
The head of quality assurance and manufacturing, Mugiira Nthiga told the media that their products undergoes all the safety measures to ensure they meet all the standards set by the law in breweries before distribution.
The Mathira Member of Parliament Wamumbi defended his actions stating that he was looking out for his community by preventing the alleged illicit drinks from hitting the market.
