As part of efforts by the Kenyan government to eradicate dangerous liquor, a task force has been formed to regulate alcoholic drinks imported and sold within the country.

Interior CS Joseph Nkaissery said measures to be taken will include visits and inspection of all premises manufacturing alcoholic drinks and recommend measures of control including the closure of production premises where necessary.

"The objective of the exercise is to ensure that health and safety regulations are strictly adhered to in the manufacturing, sale and drinking of alcoholic beverages. They will undertake a full audit of all alcoholic drinks, potable spirits and illicit brews in the Kenyan market and manufacturers," he said in a statement dated July 30.

The team will collect views from the public on how to control and combat illicit alcohol.

He said a toll-free number has been set-up through which the public can report any violation.

Nkaissery urged proprietors and managers affected to cooperate with inspectors to make the process efficient and effective.

The team dubbed "The Inter-Agency Task force on Control of Portable Spirits and Combat of Illicit Brews", draws its members from 12 agencies.

They include; Nacada, Anti-counterfeit Agency, Kenya Bureau of Standards, Kenya Revenue Authority, Public Health and Government Chemist, National Youth Service and National Police Service.

Others are the Council of Governors, Office of the Attorney General, Interior ministry and National Intelligence Service.

The Kenyan government banned not less than 385 brands of second generation alcohol and 112 companies in the war against illicit brews in July, which was prompted following the deaths of several people in different regions after consumption.

Nkaissery said the suspension would not be lifted until a multi-agency board inspects and certifies manufacturers' products.