Nine individuals were arrested in Homa Bay Town on Wednesday as part of a crackdown led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) to ensure compliance with alcohol-related laws. The operation was conducted by officials from NACADA’s Migori County Office and aimed to address the growing concerns about non-compliant alcohol outlets operating in the area.
The crackdown was part of NACADA’s continued efforts to combat alcohol abuse and drug-related offenses in various regions across Kenya. The authority, in a statement shared via X, emphasized that the multi-agency operation was aimed at ensuring that alcohol businesses adhered to the legal requirements set out for their operations. This included operating within prescribed hours, proper licensing, and avoiding any practices that encourage underage drinking or other illegal activities.
According to the authority’s report, the suspects were arrested for various offenses and were subsequently booked by the relevant authorities. NACADA reiterated its call for cooperation from the public to help address the menace of drug and alcohol abuse in Homa Bay and other counties. The authority urged community members to report any suspicious activities or unlawful practices they witness within their neighborhoods, noting the importance of their involvement in curbing illegal substance abuse.
NACADA has consistently encouraged the use of its dedicated hotline, 1192, for individuals to make anonymous reports to the authorities. This hotline provides a direct communication channel for residents to highlight concerns about illegal substances, underage drinking, or any non-compliant alcohol outlets in their area. The public is also being urged to familiarize themselves with the laws and regulations governing alcohol and drug use in order to contribute to safer communities.
“Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations to help uphold a safe and lawful community,” NACADA stated, highlighting the importance of awareness and vigilance in safeguarding public health.
NACADA has also been running awareness campaigns through road shows across the country to spread the message of creating drug-free societies. On Wednesday, NACADA teams visited Empopogi Primary School, Duka Moja, and Suswa in Narok County to emphasize the value of making positive choices and resisting peer pressure. During these shows, NACADA encouraged residents to advocate for healthy lifestyles, support rehabilitation efforts, and mentor the youth towards making better decisions that promote resilience.
The crackdown and ongoing awareness campaigns underscore NACADA’s commitment to creating drug-free neighborhoods and improving community health. By fostering a collaborative approach between the public and authorities, NACADA hopes to build a society where alcohol and drug abuse are significantly reduced, and individuals, especially youth, are empowered to make better life choices.
As the crackdown in Homa Bay Town demonstrates, NACADA remains committed to its mission of ensuring compliance with alcohol laws and fostering a drug-free environment for all Kenyans.
