KISUMU, Kenya, Jan 31 – A drinking competition turned tragic over the weekend in Kisumu after one of the participants lost consciousness and died.
Another competitor was admitted to hospital in critical condition during the drinking binge in Mamboleo, on the outskirts of Kisumu town.
However, the incident did not deter the other five competitors who went on to the final lap of the competition that saw each gulping ten bottles of 250 millilitres of liquor.
The winner took home Sh500 while the rest were given Sh100 each.
The two became unconscious after taking four bottles, leaving six bottles untouched as they were rushed to the hospital.
Kisumu police boss John Mwinzi said the two started vomiting and were rushed to New Nyanza general hospital where one died while undergoing treatment.
"The hospital confirmed that one person died while undergoing treatment while the other is admitted in critical condition. The hospital says that he is responding well to treatment," he said.
Mr Mwinzi said the organiser of the ill fated event had recorded statements with the police as investigations were launched into the incident.
"We are doing investigations over the matter and if we find loopholes on the side of the organiser them we may press charges against him," said Mr Mwinzi.
He warned the youth against getting involved in such activities that are detrimental to their lives.
Mr Mwinzi who termed the two as \’amateurs\’ in alcohol drinking warned the youth not to be swayed in such competitions.
"Let this be a warning to the youth that such competitions are dangerous to their lives and instead they should get engaged in other income generating activities," he said.
Kajulu East Ward civic leader Erick Oricho also condemned the incident and appealed to the youth not to be tempted to engage in such activities.
"It is unfortunate that we are losing lives in such competitions. Let our youth be responsible and live their lives to the fullest," he said.
About The Author
