Police have seized 481 litres of chang’aa and several other illegal items in Kisii County as part of an ongoing crackdown on illicit alcohol and drugs. The operation was carried out at Itumbe Stage by officers from Sameta Sub-County, led by the Sub-County Police Commander.
During the bust, authorities also recovered a batch of a substance suspected to be cannabis sativa, along with two imitation FN rifles, a toy pistol, and other items believed to be linked to criminal activities. One person was arrested and is currently in police custody while investigations continue.
The police highlighted that this crackdown is part of their sustained efforts to combat the production and distribution of illegal brews and harmful drugs. The seized chang’aa and other items remain in custody as the probe into the matter progresses.
This recent operation in Kisii follows a major crackdown in Samburu County, where authorities arrested five people and destroyed over 2,000 litres of kangara, a traditional beer made from maize or millet. That operation took place in Maralal Town and was conducted in collaboration with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).
In Samburu, the suspects were found in possession and manufacture of various illegal brews including chang’aa, busaa, and kangara. The seized kangara was destroyed on-site, and the suspects are currently awaiting arraignment in court.
According to a report from NACADA, drug and alcohol abuse among young adults is a growing concern, particularly in urban areas. The agency noted that 23 percent of young adults aged between 18 and 24 have engaged in drug use during social gatherings. Private venues, including short-term rental accommodations such as Airbnbs, have been identified as common locations where drug use occurs.
The report also raised alarms about a rise in drug-related incidents linked to such private venues. Over the past year, multiple cases have been reported where young people consumed drugs in these settings, sometimes resulting in fatal overdoses. This trend has led to calls for stricter monitoring and regulation of short-term rental spaces to curb the misuse and reduce associated risks.
Authorities stress the importance of community cooperation and vigilance in the fight against illicit substances. They urge members of the public to report suspicious activities related to illegal brews and drug abuse to help maintain public safety and health.
The police and related agencies remain committed to enforcing laws against the production, distribution, and consumption of illegal alcohol and drugs. These measures aim to protect citizens from the dangers posed by such substances, which have been linked to numerous social and health problems.
Efforts are also being made to educate the public on the harmful effects of illicit brews and drug abuse. Awareness campaigns are targeting vulnerable groups, especially the youth, to discourage participation in these activities and promote healthier lifestyles.
In addition to enforcement, the government and partner organizations continue to explore rehabilitation programs for those affected by substance abuse. The goal is to provide support systems that aid recovery and reintegration into society.
The recent operations in Kisii and Samburu Counties underscore the persistent challenges faced by law enforcement in tackling illegal alcohol and drug trade. They also highlight the importance of sustained action and community engagement to reduce the prevalence of these harmful substances.
As investigations proceed, authorities remain vigilant and determined to dismantle networks involved in illegal alcohol production and drug distribution, ensuring safer communities across the country.
