An intelligence-led multi-agency operation conducted in Kapsabet Town, Nandi County, has dealt a significant blow to narcotic drug and illicit alcohol networks operating within residential areas.
The late-night crackdown, carried out near the Kapsabet Showground area in Bondeni between 9.00 p.m. and 12.30 a.m., targeted the proliferation of cannabis and second-generation liquor. Despite heavy rains and muddy terrain, the NACADA team successfully recovered 2,400 stones of cannabis concealed in used newspaper material, a 20-litre jerrican partially filled with processed green plant material suspected to be cannabis seeds for planting, and 116 bottles (200 ml each) of contraband vodka believed to have originated from Uganda.
One suspect was arrested and is set to be arraigned in court. All recovered exhibits have been secured pending production as evidence.
Disturbingly, the illegal activities were being carried out in an environment accessible to school-going children, exposing them to narcotics at close range. The fact that an adult, expected to safeguard and guide minors, was allegedly involved underscores the brazen and dangerous nature of criminal operations infiltrating communities and directly endangering young people.
Speaking after the operation, NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa reaffirmed that community protection remains the Authority’s foremost priority in its renewed national offensive against drug abuse.
“Protection of our communities is paramount. We are executing intelligence-led crackdowns to dismantle supply chains while simultaneously strengthening prevention programmes to reduce demand. This is in line with the Presidential directive and our mandate to safeguard the public,” said Dr. Omerikwa.
He emphasized that NACADA’s strategy is anchored on two complementary pillars: supply suppression through targeted enforcement, and demand reduction through sustained, evidence-based prevention initiatives in schools, families, and communities.
“Enforcement disrupts availability, but prevention addresses vulnerability. We are scaling up both approaches because lasting impact requires a comprehensive response,” he added.
The Nandi operation comes shortly after a series of coordinated enforcement actions in Trans Nzoia County that further demonstrate the Authority’s intensified posture.
In one operation, NACADA raided the residence of a suspected ethanol distributor and alcohol counterfeiter, recovering more than 400 litres of unlicensed and uncustomed ethanol. Three suspects were arrested in connection with the illicit trade.
In a separate crackdown at the Kitale Bus Park within the same county, the Authority dismantled a cannabis-selling ring and seized over 180 rolls of the substance. Three additional suspects were apprehended.
Dr. Omerikwa noted that these back-to-back operations signal a clear warning to individuals engaged in narcotics trafficking and illicit alcohol distribution.
“We will continue to pursue intelligence-driven enforcement actions across the country. Those who profit from poisoning our communities, especially where children are concerned, should expect decisive action,” he stated.
NACADA has called upon members of the public to remain vigilant and collaborate with authorities by reporting suspicious activities. The Authority maintains that sustained community partnership, strengthened enforcement, and scaled-up prevention programming are essential to winning the fight against alcohol and drug abuse and securing safer environments for Kenya’s children and families.
