Kitui Drug Raid Cannabis Seized

A major crackdown on drug trafficking in Kitui County has led to the seizure of cannabis valued at one million shillings and the arrest of a suspected high-profile trafficker.

The operation was carried out in a coordinated dawn raid by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).

Officers from NACADA’s Nairobi headquarters executed simultaneous operations at the suspect’s residence and commercial premises on Thursday morning.

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The raids yielded more than 5,600 rolls of ready-to-use bhang, three rolling flags, cannabis in various other forms, polythene bags, weighing scales, and rolling papers.

Speaking after the operation, NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa said the Authority had been conducting surveillance on the individual for several weeks before the raids.

“Today's operation demonstrates NACADA's unwavering commitment to protecting society, especially now that schools are closed and children are at home for the holidays,” Omerikwa said.

“We cannot allow drug peddlers to prey on our youth during this period when they are away from the structured school environment.”

The CEO also commended members of the public for their continued support in curbing substance abuse.

“The public has remained a dependable ally in this war against alcohol and drug use across the country. I call on citizens to stay vigilant and continue volunteering information that will lead to protecting our environment and communities from the harms caused by drug use,” he added.

A community member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the suspect as a long-standing problem in the neighbourhood.

“This man has been a problem for years. Many of our young people have fallen victim to his illegal activities, and parents have been living in fear,” the resident said. “NACADA is doing a good job. We hope the court will not release him back to destroy more lives.”

The arrest comes amid a series of high-profile enforcement raids conducted by the Authority following President William Ruto's renewed call to intensify the fight against drug abuse in the country.

The suspect is currently in custody and is expected to face charges of drug trafficking and possession of narcotics. Authorities have urged anyone with information on drug peddling in their areas to report to NACADA or the nearest police station.

The crackdown highlights the Authority’s continued focus on disrupting drug networks and protecting vulnerable communities. Dr. Omerikwa emphasised that vigilance from both law enforcement and the public remains crucial in the fight against narcotics.