Written by Kelly Were
BUNGOMA, Kenya — May 31, 2025
A multi-agency security operation in Sitikho Location, Webuye West Sub-County, led to the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of large quantities of illicit alcohol and cannabis in an ongoing crackdown on illegal brews and drugs in Bungoma County.
The operation, conducted on Saturday, was spearheaded by officers from Matisi Police Station under the leadership of the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), in collaboration with National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and local village elders.
During the raid, police confiscated 220 litres of kangara and 85 litres of chang’aa, both categorized as illicit alcoholic substances under Kenyan law. Authorities say these substances are often brewed and distributed illegally, posing serious health and safety risks to local communities.
Two additional suspects managed to flee the scene during the raid. However, a follow-up search of their homes revealed further illegal substances, including: 85 litres of chang’aa,120 litres of kangara,136 rolls of cannabis sativa,120 grams of unprocessed cannabis sativa
The five arrested suspects are currently in police custody and will be arraigned in court once investigations are complete.
Law enforcement agencies have launched a manhunt for the two suspects who escaped during the operation. Officers expressed confidence that the fugitives would be apprehended soon, emphasizing that such operations will continue in a bid to dismantle illegal alcohol and drug networks in the region.
“This is part of an ongoing effort to safeguard public health and restore order in communities affected by the production and consumption of illegal substances,” said a senior officer involved in the operation.
Residents of Sitikho and surrounding areas have welcomed the crackdown, with several village elders lauding the partnership between security agencies and the local community in the fight against illicit brews and drugs.
