NACADA Arrests Kisumu Drug Peddler with Bhang Worth KSh4 Million Street Value

By Benadeta Mwaura - Reporter

Kenya, 20 January 2026 - The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has arrested a repeat drug trafficker in Ahero, Kisumu County, seizing bhang valued at more than KSh4 million in coordinated pre-dawn operations, authorities said on Tuesday.

According to NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr Anthony Omerikwa, the suspect is a well-known figure who had previously been arrested during nationwide crackdowns, including the Jukwaa la Usalama initiative.

At that time, she was detained with narcotics valued at nearly KSh 10 million and released on bond pending court proceedings.

“This individual epitomises the persistent challenge we face. Her swift re-arrest demonstrates our relentless pursuit,” Dr Omerikwa said, signalling intensified efforts to dismantle entrenched drug networks.

NACADA officers, acting on intelligence, raided a homestead in Ahero where the suspect was found with quantities of cannabis packaged as twigs, packets and brooms, all flagged as contraband under Kenya’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act.

Authorities also uncovered a suspected drug den directly opposite Ahero Girls’ High School, prompting particular concern from education stakeholders given its proximity to learners.

A senior official at the school described the raid as a relief, noting that the presence of drugs near educational institutions posed a serious risk to young people.

The Ahero arrest forms part of a broader, intelligence-led enforcement push by NACADA and security agencies to stem the supply of illegal narcotics and protect vulnerable communities.

In recent months, Kenyan police and anti-narcotics units have intercepted large consignments of bhang across the country, from Kisumu East to other counties.

For example:

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Police in Kisumu East seized bhang worth Sh2 million believed to be on transit to Mombasa, with one suspect arrested.

Law enforcement teams at the Namanga border post intercepted an 84-kg consignment of cannabis valued at about KSh 2.5 million destined for Kenya.

In Elgeyo Marakwet, 266 kg of cannabis valued at over KSh13 million was intercepted as traffickers attempted to transport it toward Nairobi.

These operations underscore ongoing efforts to disrupt narcotics supply chains that exploit highways, border routes and urban centers.

Bhang (cannabis sativa) remains one of the most trafficked illicit drugs in Kenya, with law enforcement and anti-drug agencies intensifying action as part of national campaigns to reduce substance abuse and its societal harm.

Large-scale seizures and arrests serve to cut supply, dismantle criminal networks and help protect young people, especially where drugs are trafficked near schools and youth environments.

Kenya’s fight against narcotics trafficking is ongoing, with authorities urging the public to report suspicious activity and cooperate with intelligence efforts to ensure drugs are curbed before they reach vulnerable communities.