3 nabbed after Nacada busts drug ring targeting children in Eldoret

A multi-agency security team has arrested three suspected drug traffickers and seized a large cache of narcotics during a pre-dawn operation in Langas, Eldoret.

The crackdown was targeting the supply of illicit substances to school children and young people.

The operation was conducted by officers from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and the National Police Service, with support from the County Command.

Acting on intelligence, the team raided a suspected hideout believed to be at the centre of a network distributing drugs within the area.

Authorities recovered more than 300 rolls of cannabis, a full stone of cannabis, assorted chewable tobacco products and cannabis-laced cookies allegedly packaged for distribution to underage children.

Officials described the recovery as alarming, noting the deliberate targeting of minors through edible products.

NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr Anthony Omerikwa said the successful raid was part of intensified nationwide suppression operations during the festive season.

He said the agency was acting on specific intelligence to dismantle drug networks and protect vulnerable groups.

“Our reports indicate that the traffickers we are nabbing have been deliberately targeting school children and the youth,” Dr Omerikwa said, adding that the practice posed a serious threat to the country’s future.

He warned drug dealers and their networks that the government would continue to pursue them relentlessly.

“This is a direct message to the drug lords: your time is up. We are coming for you, your networks and your profits,” he said.

The operation, dubbed Operation on Narcotics, reflects the government’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking and abuse.

The three suspects are currently being held at Langas Police Station and are expected to be arraigned in court.

Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, saying the ongoing crackdown aims to safeguard communities, particularly during the festive season.