Police seize suspected bhang in Elgeyo Marakwet drug bust

Police officers attached to Metkei Police Station in Elgeyo Marakwet County seized seven bags of suspected bhang and arrested a driver following an intelligence-led operation along the Dry–Naiberi Road.

According to the police, the officers received credible information indicating that a vehicle was being used to transport bhang in the area.

Acting swiftly on the tip-off, the officers mounted an operation and intercepted the suspect vehicle in the Kapchorwa area.

A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of seven bags containing a substance believed to be bhang, which had been concealed inside the car. The driver was immediately arrested and taken into custody.

Police said the suspect is being held as investigations continue, after which he will be arraigned in court to face drug-related charges.

This is the latest seizure to be made in a series following a new crackdown on drugs and illicit brew. Tens of suspects have been arrested in the new campaign.

It came after President William Ruto said the menace of drug trafficking and consumption with alcohol is a threat to national security.

The police have been ordered to pursue all those involved in the business. A multi-agency team is coordinating the operation in the country.

Elsewhere, police officers from Kogelo Police Station, Siaya Subcounty, recovered 990 litres of suspected chang’aa in the Uuna area along the Ng’iya–Ndori Road, within South East Alego Location.

The seizure followed an accident involving a motor vehicle and a motorcycle, after which the driver of the motor vehicle fled the scene.

 Upon responding, officers recovered 18 sacks containing sachets of the suspected illicit brew.

Five sacks were found inside the vehicle, and thirteen sacks had been concealed near the scene. Necessary action was taken, and the exhibits were secured in police custody.

Investigations are ongoing to trace and apprehend the suspects involved, as efforts continue to curb the production and distribution of illicit alcohol.

The National Police Service reiterated its commitment to combating the trafficking of narcotics and other illicit drugs, noting that sustained vigilance and intelligence-driven operations remain key in the fight against drug abuse and related crime in the country.

The DCI is revamping the Anti-Narcotics Unit for major operations.

There is an ongoing recruitment of more personnel to ANU.

The courts have also been told to be ready to handle cases that are presented there for quick sentencing and other procedures, officials revealed.