An assistant chief in Mogotio, Baringo County has adopted new methods to arrest business owners selling illicit brew in the county and putting the lives of consumers at risk.
Philemon Kapsabit who goes undercover to arrest the culprits explained that this was a move to avoid drawing attention to himself during a raid.
While speaking to the press on Saturday, the official noted that he wears a dera among other women's clothing during such operations.
He explained that the tactic was adopted after 17 people died in Kirinyaga after consuming illicit alcohol in February.
Since the raids can become violent and chaotic, Kapsabit explained that he usually puts his life at risk to save his colleagues.
He noted that in one raid, he was once caught up in running battles involving the business owners and consumers at a local den.
"I saw a woman running fast and I also pretended to be running. She told me to run faster since the chiefs were there not knowing I was one of them. I arrested her," he stated.
Kapsabit revealed that his greatest joy was seeing everyone involved in making and selling illicit brew arrested and charged.
The assistant chief told the press that one of the suspects he was going after for three months had been arrested and sentenced to six months in jail.
His tactic has been met with ridicule, shock and admiration from his family and local residents including his wife. The wife revealed that she learnt of the new move after one of her dresses went missing.
"So far I have not seen any harm this has caused my wife and family. I have a supportive wife who understands the nature of the job," Kapsabit stated.
Kapsabit's efforts have been successful with some local brewers reforming and others taking up alternative means of earning a living.
The crackdown on illicit brew is spearheaded by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the Ministry of Interior and has been ongoing for over two months.
Over 8,000 businesses have been closed down and hundreds arrested for engaging in the illegal practice.
