A joint security operation in Kitale has uncovered cannabis valued at over Sh3 million, following a night raid on a suspected drug den just hours before the county’s Jukwaa la Usalama forum.
The raid, spearheaded by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), took place on the outskirts of Kitale town and resulted in the arrest of six suspects.
The operation, supported by the Anti-Narcotics Unit, Administration Police, and other local enforcement units, followed weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa described the bust as a significant milestone in the region’s anti-narcotics campaign.
“This is a warning to all who continue to trade in illicit substances—your days are numbered,” he said. “We are intensifying efforts across all known hotspots.”
Authorities say the cannabis, packed in sacks and hidden within a residential compound, was intended for distribution across parts of Trans Nzoia County, where youth addiction rates have raised concern in recent months.
The operation was made possible through coordination led by Deputy Inspector General of Police (Administration Police) Gilbert Masengeli, whose team ensured the key suspect was arrested during the raid.
“The Deputy Inspector General played a pivotal role in ensuring the raid was executed smoothly and effectively,” added Omerikwa.
The operation came on the eve of the Jukwaa la Usalama forum, a community-driven government initiative focusing on security awareness and public dialogue. Its timing, officials said, was deliberate—sending a strong message about the government’s determination to crack down on drug trafficking.
Residents welcomed the raid, with several community members urging authorities to sustain the momentum and expand surveillance to other vulnerable areas.
NACADA has since appealed to the public to assist in identifying drug networks, promising protection for informants.
“We will not relent,” said Omerikwa. “The war on drugs is a collective effort. With public support, we can protect our youth and dismantle these networks permanently.”
