5 dead after consuming adulterated alcoholic brew in Isiolo

Five people have died while nine others have narrowly escaped death after consuming liquor that is suspected to have been adulterated in Isiolo County.

The Monday incident occured after a group of people from Oldonyoro and Kipsing purchased the suspect liquor from Rodongokwe market situated along the Isiolo-Samburu Counties border on Sunday.

Acting Isiolo Health Services Chief Officer Peter Ngechu confirmed the incident and disclosed that one victim of the lethal brew died at Oldonyoro Town while the other four succumbed at Kipsing Town.

Among the deceased are two women, one of whom is suspected to be one of the brewers of the lethal brew.

“Three others who were rushed to the health facility in critical condition were transferred to the Referral Hospital where they are currently admitted. They are complaining of visual challenges,” Ngechu said.

The victims of the lethal brew exhibited such signs as dizziness, throat pain, visual problems and vomiting.

Six out of the nine victims of the brew have already been discharged from Kipsing Health Centre where they were receiving treatment while the other three were referred to Isiolo Teaching and Referral Hospital for specialised treatment.

According to the Isiolo County health report, a surveillance team has been tasked with investigating the matter and ensuring all the victims receive proper treatment.

The authorities have also seized a carton of the killer liquor which will help with the investigations.

Ngechu appealed to anyone who may have taken the drink to seek medical attention from a health facility immediately.

“I appeal to those who might have consumed the drink to visit the nearest health facility for assistance as investigations continue,” Ngechu said.