A two-day multi-agency crackdown on illicit alcohol and narcotics in Narok North and Narok West sub-counties has led to the destruction of thousands of litres of illegal brews and the seizure of narcotics in a renewed campaign against substance abuse.
The operation, spearheaded by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), targeted notorious hotspots in Topoti/Emorogi and Naikara markets, areas long plagued by the rampant trade of illegal brews.
Led by NACADA’s Head of Enforcement, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Nicholas Kosgey, the crackdown was conducted in collaboration with officers from the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and the National Police Service (NPS).
In Topoti/Emorogi, enforcement officers raided several homesteads suspected to be brewing dens, destroying over 5,000 litres of Kangara and recovering five kilograms of bhang. However, no arrests were made as suspects fled upon detecting the incoming officers.
At Naikara Market, compliance checks were conducted on alcohol-selling establishments, leading to the destruction of 60 litres of Busaa, another illicit local brew. Intelligence reports also pointed to the circulation of counterfeit products believed to be smuggled from neighboring Tanzania.
SSP Kosgey lauded the success of the operation, calling it a stern warning to those engaged in the illegal alcohol and drug trade. “The public has been supportive and is willing to assist in future operations. This is just the beginning, more crackdowns will follow,” he stated.
Local residents welcomed the operation, citing the adverse effects of illicit brews on public health, rising crime rates, and increased youth delinquency. Authorities are now calling for broader coordination with additional agencies such as the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), and public health departments to further curb the infiltration of harmful substances into communities.
The crackdown forms part of NACADA’s sustained nationwide efforts to combat alcohol and drug abuse, particularly in high-risk regions like Narok. Officials have pledged to sustain the momentum and ensure that perpetrators face the full force of the law.
“Those engaging in this illegal trade should know that their days are numbered,” warned Kosgey.
Written By Rodney Mbua
