Illicit alcohol impounded in Garowe town

Security officers have confiscated 288 bottles of illicit alcohol suspected to have been imported in Garowe town of the semi-autonomous regional state of Puntland.

Nugal Commissioner, Abdirashid Mohamud Hussein, in Garowe town said the liquor, which was packed in 12 cartons, was confiscated after launching thorough operation against drug.

“Our officers were on their routine patrol when they saw five men selling the illicit alcohol. When they stopped them, the men dropped the bags and ran away but were caught,” said Hussein.

The bottles were sealed with cello tape. The officer said the alcohol may have contained lethal substances.

“We are yet to establish its source. We are investigating the matter and if completed, they will be prosecuted in a court of law,” he said.

All kinds of alcohol are forbidden under the Somalia laws, which are all subject to Islamic Sharia.

Those who found the use, sale and distribution of all kinds of alcohol and other drugs are arrested for long term jail and their belongings of the alcohol being burnt down or destroyed.