NACADA-Led Operation Targets Drug and Alcohol Syndicate in Migori County
A coordinated multi-agency operation spearheaded by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has successfully dismantled an illicit drug and alcohol syndicate in the Pandipieri area of Migori County. The crackdown involved collaboration with the Anti-Narcotic Unit (ANU), Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and other law enforcement agencies.
Recovery of Illicit Substances
During the raid, law enforcement officers recovered:
- 384 tariffs and 628 sticks of suspected marijuana
- 21.5 litres of chang’aa
- Dry plant material suspected to be cannabis, packed in two sacks and a basin
- Two mobile phones linked to the operation
The tariffs were concealed in a plastic water container. Subsequent intelligence led the team to a house in Pandipieri, suspected to serve as a drug trafficking hub.
A search of the premises yielded:
- 40 tariffs and 230 sticks of suspected cannabis
- 1.5 litres of chang’aa
- Uncustomed cigarette packets
- Additional dry plant material suspected to be cannabis
- An improvised black smoking device
Two suspects were arrested during the operation, and the recovered items will undergo forensic analysis as investigations continue.
NACADA’s Commitment to Combating Substance Abuse
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa praised the collaborative efforts of all agencies involved in the operation.
“This successful operation highlights the strength of our multi-agency approach in combating the proliferation of illicit drugs and alcohol. We are determined to safeguard communities from the adverse effects of substance abuse,” said Dr. Omerikwa.
He reiterated NACADA’s zero-tolerance policy toward illicit substances, emphasizing the devastating impact of drugs and alcohol on lives, families, and society.
Call to Action for Communities
Dr. Omerikwa urged the public to take an active role in the fight against substance abuse:
“We urge community members to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities. Together, we can create a safer, healthier environment for all.”
Broader Efforts Against Illicit Alcohol
The Pandipieri operation is part of NACADA’s broader strategy to enforce strict laws against illicit drugs and alcohol. On December 10, 2024, a targeted operation in Mbeu Village, Tigania West Sub-County, led to the arrest of a notorious brewer supplying illicit liquor in the locality.
Dr. Omerikwa reaffirmed NACADA’s commitment to protecting Kenyan communities, stating:
“This operation is a testament to our resolve to address this issue head-on. We will not relent in our efforts to protect our people and uphold the law.”
Working Towards a Drug-Free Society
As the fight against illicit drugs and alcohol intensifies, NACADA continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to combat this societal menace. The agency calls for collective action from all stakeholders to ensure a drug-free and healthier society.
