NACADA raids Nandi, nets 2400 bhangi stones

An intelligence-led multi-agency operation in Kapsabet Town, Nandi County, has dealt a major setback to narcotics and illicit alcohol networks operating within residential neighbourhoods.

The late-night raid, conducted near the Kapsabet Showground area in Bondeni between 9:00 p.m. and 12:30 a.m., targeted the distribution of cannabis and second-generation liquor. Despite heavy rainfall and muddy conditions, officers from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) recovered 2,400 stones of cannabis wrapped in used newspaper, a 20-litre jerrican containing processed green plant material suspected to be cannabis seeds, and 116 bottles (200 ml each) of suspected contraband vodka believed to have originated from Uganda.

One suspect was arrested during the operation and is expected to be arraigned in court, while all seized items have been secured as exhibits pending legal proceedings.

Drugs Found Near Residential Areas

Authorities expressed concern that the illegal activities were taking place in an environment easily accessible to school-going children, exposing minors to narcotics at close range. Investigators noted that the alleged involvement of an adult — expected to protect and guide young people — highlights the growing threat posed by criminal networks infiltrating communities.

Speaking after the operation, NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa reiterated that safeguarding communities remains central to the agency’s intensified national campaign against drug and substance abuse.

“Protection of our communities is paramount. We are executing intelligence-led crackdowns to dismantle supply chains while strengthening prevention programmes to reduce demand,” he said, adding that the efforts align with presidential directives and the Authority’s mandate to protect the public.

Dr. Omerikwa explained that NACADA’s strategy focuses on two key pillars:

• Supply suppression through targeted enforcement operations

• Demand reduction through sustained prevention programmes in schools, families and communities

He emphasised that enforcement limits availability, while prevention addresses vulnerability, noting that both approaches are necessary for long-term impact.

Related Operations in Trans Nzoia

The Nandi crackdown follows a series of coordinated enforcement actions in Trans Nzoia County demonstrating the Authority’s intensified operations.

In one raid, officers searched the home of a suspected ethanol distributor and alcohol counterfeiter, recovering more than 400 litres of unlicensed ethanol and arresting three suspects.

In a separate operation at Kitale Bus Park, authorities dismantled a cannabis distribution ring and seized over 180 rolls of the drug, leading to three additional arrests.

According to NACADA, the back-to-back operations send a strong warning to individuals involved in narcotics trafficking and illegal alcohol distribution.

“We will continue intelligence-driven enforcement actions nationwide. Those profiting from poisoning our communities, especially where children are concerned, should expect decisive action,” Dr. Omerikwa stated.

Call for Public Cooperation

NACADA has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities. The agency maintains that collaboration between communities and law enforcement — alongside strengthened enforcement and expanded prevention programmes — is essential in combating drug and alcohol abuse and ensuring safer environments for Kenyan families and children.