The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies has seized contraband valued at over KSh 2.9 million in Bondo Sub-County.
The operation, which was part of a nationwide crackdown, was launched after authorities received a tip-off that led them to a notorious drug dealer’s hideout in Nyamonye Market.
Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, CEO of NACADA, hailed the operation as a significant victory in the fight against substance abuse and illegal alcohol trade.
“This operation marks a significant victory in our relentless war against drug abuse and illegal alcohol trade,” Dr. Omerikwa declared.
“We will not allow unscrupulous traders to destroy the lives of our youth.”
The raid, which took place at the home, business premises, and rental houses of the primary suspect, Francis Odhiambo Ochieng, resulted in the discovery of a large haul of illicit goods.
Among the contraband recovered were 4,600 sticks of suspected cannabis sativa, 11 brooms of suspected bhang, and eight cartons of Supermatch cigarettes, which authorities believe were destined for Uganda and South Sudan.
Additionally, the authorities seized 118 cartons of Challenger spirits, 107 cartons of Simba Waragi spirits, and 12 cartons of Dry Gin liquor.
In a surprising twist, the operation also uncovered four cash safes containing substantial sums of money believed to be proceeds from the illegal activities.
“The safes are being examined to verify the exact amount, but we strongly believe these are illicit earnings from this illegal trade,” Dr. Omerikwa stated, as authorities continue their investigations into the full extent of the operation.
Two suspects, Francis Odhiambo Ochieng and Everlyne Atieno Amungo, were arrested during the raid.
Both are currently in custody at Bondo Police Station, where they are being held in anticipation of their court appearance on Monday.
This successful raid follows last week’s seizure of drugs worth KSh 8 million in Kisii County, further indicating the scale and intensity of the ongoing crackdown.
“This is just the beginning,” Dr. Omerikwa warned.
“We are scaling up operations across the country to dismantle these criminal networks and safeguard our youth.”
