As the country's economy continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, a rise in drinks spiking cases has been reported in entertainment joints across the nation.
According to the Bars Hotels and Liquor Trade Association (BAHLITA), the reopening of the economy has led to a surge in social gatherings, resulting in an increase in drinks spiking cases.
BAHLITA has taken steps to address the issue, including requesting the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to provide a team of officers to help mitigate the problem.
BAHLITA Secretary General Boniface Gachoka stated, 'We have asked the DCI boss George Kinoti to provide a team of officers who will help mitigate this booming business.'
The association has also partnered with the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya to identify chemists involved in the illegal sale of date rape drugs and other substances used in drinks spiking.
Additionally, BAHLITA's Kisumu chapter chairperson, Daniel Ouma, has instructed bar owners to install CCTV cameras and educate staff on first aid care in case a client is drugged.
Victims of drinks spiking have shared their harrowing stories, revealing that perpetrators often use date rape drugs, illegal narcotics, or prescription medicines to make their targets more vulnerable to theft.
