Kisii: An operation led by a multi-agency team, including the National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and local security forces, has resulted in the seizure of cannabis sativa of unknown value at a residential premises in Mwamogesa village, Kitutu central ward, Kitutu Chache South constituency in Kisii County.

According to Kenya News Agency, the operation commenced on Wednesday morning and concluded late in the afternoon. The team had to forcibly enter several houses to retrieve the drugs, which were concealed in various sacks, including those typically used for National Cereals' and Produce Board's subsidized 50 kg fertilizer packaging.

Kisii County Police Commander Ronald Kirui stated that the successful operation was initiated by a tip-off from a local resident. He confirmed that a manhunt would be launched for the main suspect if they failed to surrender to the nearest police station. Kirui described the consignment, which included seven 50 kg bags and four and a half 90 kg bags, as significant. He noted that the suspect was well-known in the region and possibly involved in the trade for some time.

The Commander highlighted the adverse effects of the drug on local youths and assured residents of intensified efforts to combat drug addiction in the area. Several residents found at the scene are being held by the police to assist with the investigation as they search for the key suspect.

NACADA Head of Enforcement, Mr. Nicholas Kosgei, commended the residents for providing information that led to the successful operation in collaboration with the National Police Service and the National Government Administration Officials. He emphasized that NACADA aims to reduce the supply of narcotics and appealed to the community for continued support by sharing information.

Kosgei pointed out that young people are disproportionately affected by drug abuse in the country. He issued a stern warning to traffickers, including those selling prescription drugs without medical authorization, noting that some of these drugs are misused.

This operation comes amid efforts by the Ministry of Health to combat drug abuse and addiction among the youth in the country. A Senior Deputy Secretary in the Ministry, Mawira Mungania, recently emphasized the need to address all forms of addiction, highlighting their impact as both health and social concerns during a stakeholders' forum in Garissa.