NACADA Seize 500 Bhang Rolls, Arrest Two In Crackdown

A multi-agency team led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) enforcement unit embarked on a crackdown on drug trafficking, raiding a residential house in Juja, Kiambu County.

NACADA collaborated with the Kiambu County coordination team, the National Police Service (NPS), and the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) during the raid on Thursday afternoon, March 13, arresting two key suspects linked to an illegal cannabis trade (bhang).

The high-stakes operation, which followed weeks of intelligence gathering, led to the seizure of a significant haul of narcotics and drug-related paraphernalia.

A signpost at Juja Police Station. /THIKA TOWN TODAY

"During the raid, the team recovered a substantial number of illicit materials, including approximately 500 assorted rolls of suspected cannabis, 251 packed sachets, 5 large bales, 2 digital weighing scales, 1 kitchen scale, 40 pieces of Rizler papers, 1 rolling stick, 6 scissors, and assorted packing nylon papers," a statement by NACADA to newsrooms read in part.

According to officials, the suspects are believed to be part of a wider drug distribution network supplying marijuana to locals within Juja and the surrounding areas.

They were immediately taken into custody and are currently being held at Muthaiga Police Station pending their arraignment at the JKIA Law Courts on Friday, March 14, 2025.

NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa lauded the successful operation, emphasizing the agency’s relentless fight against drug abuse and trafficking in Kenya.

“This operation is a testament to our unwavering resolve to combat the menace of narcotic drugs. We will continue to work closely with other law enforcement agencies to ensure that those involved in this illegal trade face the full force of the law,” Dr. Omerikwa stated.

He further urged the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious drug-related activities, reaffirming NACADA’s dedication to creating a drug-free society.

This latest crackdown underscores the government’s intensified efforts to combat the rise of the illegal drug trade, particularly in urban areas where youth remain highly vulnerable to substance abuse.

Authorities have vowed to maintain pressure on drug traffickers, signaling that this is just one of many operations aimed at cleaning up Kenya’s streets.

A recent report by NACADA on drug and substance abuse, showing the prevalence of alcohol among university students, showed that alcohol consumption was reported by 87.3% of students, followed by cigarette use at 64.4% and shisha at 41.2%.

Besides alcohol, students also reported using other substances, including vaping (31%), nicotine pouches (30.7%), kuber (23%), and snuff or chewed tobacco (22.1%).