Authorities have arrested two suspects in a targeted operation aimed at dismantling the sale and distribution of narcotics and illicit brews in Nyatike Sub-County, Migori County. The crackdown, conducted on August 10, 2025, saw officers intensify surveillance and enforcement measures against drug trafficking and illegal alcohol production in the region.
During the operation, one suspect was apprehended with a significant quantity of substances believed to be cannabis sativa. Police recovered approximately 140 rolls, a broom, and 40 sticks of the drug from the individual. In a separate incident within the same crackdown, a second suspect was found in possession of 1.5 litres of chang’aa, a locally brewed illicit alcoholic drink banned under Kenyan law.
Both suspects were taken into custody and are awaiting arraignment. Law enforcement officials emphasised that these arrests form part of a wider strategy to curb the infiltration of harmful substances into communities, protect public health, and maintain law and order. They also called upon the public to cooperate by reporting suspicious activities linked to the production, sale, and distribution of narcotics and illicit alcohol.
This operation comes against the backdrop of a renewed government push to enforce existing laws on illegal brews and drug use. Senior government officials have recently stressed the responsibility of local administrators to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the problem. They have warned that failure to enforce the ban on illicit brews could lead to dismissal for chiefs and assistant chiefs, reiterating that it is impossible for such activities to thrive without the knowledge of local leadership.
Authorities have made it clear that the fight against narcotics and illicit alcohol requires a joint effort involving law enforcement agencies, local leaders, and residents. They have underscored the social and economic harm caused by these substances, from health deterioration to loss of productivity, increased crime, and destabilisation of communities.
The Nyatike arrests highlight the government’s zero-tolerance policy on illegal substances and the heightened intensity of crackdowns across the country. With continued community cooperation and strict enforcement, officials believe they can significantly reduce the prevalence of narcotics and illicit alcohol in affected areas.
The two suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue, with their cases expected to proceed to court in the coming days.
