The National Police Service (NPS) has stepped up efforts to curb the circulation of illicit alcohol and narcotic drugs in Kibra Sub-County, Nairobi, following a recent operation in the Makina area.
During the operation, police arrested four individuals and recovered three bales of suspected bhang.
A motor vehicle believed to have been used in transporting the drugs was also seized.
The suspects are in police custody pending processing and court arraignment.
The NPS reiterated its commitment to tackling the trafficking and distribution of illicit substances, which continue to pose risks to public safety and community well-being.
Members of the public have been urged to cooperate with law enforcement by reporting drug-related activities through toll-free numbers 999, 911, or 112, or anonymously via #FichuaKwaDCI on 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.
Police emphasised that community support is essential in reducing the spread of illicit drugs and protecting residents.
Illicit alcohol remains a significant concern in Kenya, presenting serious public health, social, and economic challenges.
Such brews are often produced, distributed, or sold outside the regulated legal framework and include home-brewed spirits, counterfeit branded products, and smuggled alcohol that evade quality controls, taxation, and safety standards.
Many consumers turn to illicit alcohol due to its affordability and accessibility compared to licensed products.
Health experts warn that some of these brews may contain toxic substances capable of causing poisoning, blindness, or death. Widespread abuse has also been linked to increased crime, domestic violence, and reduced productivity.
During recent Jukwaa la Usalama security forums, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen highlighted the scale of the illicit alcohol challenge and its connection to broader security concerns.
On Sunday, he called on chiefs and assistant chiefs to intensify efforts against illegal brews and drug abuse.
Speaking at AIC Riwo Church in Cherangany, Trans Nzoia County, Murkomen emphasised that combating illicit alcohol and narcotics requires a coordinated approach involving the national government, the church, and local communities.
He underscored the critical role of grassroots administrators in enforcing the law and protecting communities from harmful substances.
Murkomen noted that Trans Nzoia is among counties with a high prevalence of illicit alcohol and drug abuse, a situation he described as unacceptable.
He said the county had been identified during recent security assessments and discussions held under the Jukwaa la Usalama forums.
“For Kenya to be secure and peaceful, we must address illegal brews and drugs. During the Jukwaa la Usalama in Trans Nzoia, it was agreed that the county should be removed from the list of areas with the highest prevalence,” Murkomen said.
He urged chiefs and assistant chiefs to collaborate closely with security agencies to identify and dismantle networks involved in the production and distribution of illegal alcohol and drugs, warning that the government would not tolerate collusion or lax enforcement by local administrators.
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