The 17 people who died after consuming illicit alcohol in Kandongu village, Kirinyaga County, will be laid to rest today.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is slated to attend the departure ceremony, which is set to take place at Kandongu Primary School.

PHOTO | COURTESY 17 Victims Of Kirinyaga Killer Brew Buried

Following the first claims of deaths, further investigations revealed that the 17 persons consumed confiscated spirits held at the Kiamaciri police station.

A police officer said that the lethal brew was held at the station before four rogue officers allegedly sold it to a member of the community.

The four officers were then detained and charged at the Baricho Law Courts. John Muriithi, the pub owner where the beverages were apparently served, is also in police detention.

PHOTO | COURTESY The victims

Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki said on Friday that the government will press the most severe accusations against Muriithi.

He made the remarks after two more individuals died from the poisonous brew in the same village.

The Interior CS emphasized the gravity of the offense, comparing it to atrocities committed by self-proclaimed preacher Paul Mackenzie during the Shakahola massacre.