By Andrew Kariuki

A major anti-narcotics operation in Kitui County has led to the seizure of cannabis valued at approximately Ksh1 million and the arrest of a suspected trafficker following a dawn raid conducted by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).

Officers from NACADA’s Nairobi headquarters carried out a coordinated operation in the early hours of Thursday, April 2, targeting the suspect’s residence and business premises.

The raid resulted in the recovery of more than 5,600 rolls of ready-to-use bhang, three rolling flags, cannabis in other forms, polythene bags, weighing scales and rolling papers.

Speaking after the operation, NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa said the suspect had been under surveillance for several weeks prior to the arrest.

“Today’s operation demonstrates NACADA’s unwavering commitment to protecting society, especially now that schools are closed and children are at home for the holidays,” said Dr. Omerikwa. “We cannot allow drug peddlers to prey on our youth during this period when they are away from the structured school environment.”

He also commended members of the public for their role in supporting enforcement efforts.

“The public has remained a dependable ally in this war against alcohol and drug use across the country. I call on citizens to stay vigilant and continue volunteering information that will lead to protecting our environment and communities from the harms caused by drug use,” he added.

A local resident who spoke on condition of anonymity described the suspect as a longstanding concern in the area.

“This man has been a problem for years. Many of our young people have fallen victim to his illegal activities, and parents have been living in fear,” the resident said. “NACADA is doing a good job. We hope the court will not release him back to destroy more lives.”

The suspect is currently in custody and is expected to be charged with drug trafficking and possession of narcotics.

The operation is part of ongoing enforcement efforts following renewed calls by President William Ruto to intensify the fight against drug abuse across the country.

Authorities have urged members of the public to report suspected drug-related activities to NACADA or the nearest police station.