The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has seized contraband worth over Sh2.9 million in Bondo, Siaya County. The operation, which led to the discovery of a substantial quantity of illegal substances and alcoholic beverages, underscores the authority’s ongoing fight against the growing menace of substance abuse in Kenya.
The raid, carried out following a tip-off, targeted a notorious drug dealer’s hideout in Nyamonye Market. NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa described the operation as a significant victory in the battle against drug abuse and the illegal alcohol trade, emphasizing the importance of protecting youth from harmful substances. “We will not allow unscrupulous traders to destroy the lives of our youth,” said Omerikwa in a press statement.
Among the seized items were 4,600 sticks of suspected cannabis sativa, 11 brooms of suspected bhang awaiting analysis, and a substantial quantity of illicit liquor. Authorities also confiscated 118 cartons of spirits, 107 cartons of another type of spirit, and 12 cartons of liquor, all suspected to be part of the illicit alcohol trade. Additionally, eight cartons of cigarettes, believed to be destined for Uganda and South Sudan, were seized during the operation.
In a surprising turn of events, four cash safes, suspected to contain proceeds from illegal activities, were recovered. These safes are currently under investigation to determine the exact amount of illicit earnings they contain.
Two suspects were arrested during the raid and are currently being held at Bondo Police Station. They are set to be arraigned in court on April 7. Omerikwa has warned that this seizure is only the beginning, with NACADA scaling up operations nationwide to dismantle criminal networks involved in the drug and illicit liquor trade.
This seizure follows a similar drug bust in Kisii County worth Sh8 million, signaling NACADA’s commitment to intensifying efforts to safeguard the youth and combat the illegal trade.
