In a renewed effort to enforce the 2017 ban on shisha, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) conducted raids in Nairobi on Thursday night, leading to the arrest of three individuals and the confiscation of 52 shisha bongs. The operation, led by Nacada’s Director of Enforcement and Compliance, James Koskey, targeted two popular joints in the city, marking the latest in a series of crackdowns aimed at eradicating the use of the banned substance.
During the first raid, Nacada officials seized 10 shisha bongs and arrested one suspect. The second operation resulted in the confiscation of 42 shisha bongs, 56 assorted shisha flavours, and the arrest of two more individuals. Koskey emphasized the authority’s commitment to combating shisha use, citing its severe health risks and illegality. “Shisha is not only illegal but also poses significant health risks to users, including addiction and respiratory diseases. We will continue to conduct such operations to ensure compliance with the law and protect public health,” he stated.
The raids are part of Nacada’s broader campaign to enforce the 2017 ban, which prohibits the manufacture, importation, sale, and use of shisha in Kenya due to its detrimental health effects. This latest operation follows similar crackdowns earlier in the month, including a raid at a popular club where 30 shisha bongs were confiscated and four individuals arrested. In another operation, 15 bongs and assorted flavours were seized, with three suspects taken into custody.
Nacada has expressed concern over the resurgence of shisha use, particularly among young people who may be unaware of its dangers. The authority has called on the public to support its efforts by reporting violations through its toll-free helpline, 1192. “We cannot win this fight alone. We need the support of the public to identify and report those breaking the law,” Koskey added.
The suspects arrested during Thursday’s raids are set to be arraigned in court, where they will face charges related to the possession and distribution of shisha. Nacada’s ongoing efforts underscore its determination to curb the use of shisha and protect public health, particularly among the youth.
