Surge in Bhang and Methanol Smuggling Alarms Local Authorities in Migori County

Migori, Kenya – The trafficking of bhang and methanol in Migori County is increasingly becoming a cause for concern, with local watchdogs warning of the county turning into a transit hub for these substances. Despite increased policing efforts along the Kenya-Tanzania border, the volume of bhang and methanol being smuggled into the country through Migori County continues to rise.

According to a new release by Kenya News Agency, the volume of the smuggled bhang and methanol has escalated from 18 tons in 2015 to approximately 27 tons in 2022. Onyango noted that while local individuals initially dominated the illicit trade, organized crime gangs from outside the region are increasingly taking over. He added that Tanzanian bhang farmers, where the drug is not illegal, consider Migori and Kenya at large as their main market.

MICADRUS also highlighted a concerning rise in bhang consumption among learners in education institutions within Migori, similar to the uptake of methanol-derived spirits sold in the market. This challenges the police’s claim that their efforts have drastically reduced the volume of the two drugs transiting through Migori in recent years. A senior security agent, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated, ‘We have successfully reduced the volume of bhang and methanol smuggled into the country from Tanzania in recent years.’ He added that while sporadic cases still occur, the authorities are dealing with criminals as required.