2 arrested in Bungoma as police seize 12kg of bhang, 39K contraband cigarettes
By Kiprono Keileb, December 9, 2025Police in Bungoma have stepped up operations targeting drug trafficking networks, following yet another major recovery that underscores the scale of illicit trade in the region. The National Police Service (NPS) announced that two suspects had been arrested after officers intercepted a large consignment of cannabis and contraband cigarettes during a coordinated raid.
According to the NPS statement posted on X on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, the operation was launched after officers received credible intelligence from members of the public. Acting under the supervision of the Sub-County Police Commander, officers from Bungoma Police Station moved swiftly to a property within the area where illegal activity had been reported.
In its statement, the police said the raid led to the arrest of two people linked to drug peddling.
“During the operation, police arrested two suspected drug dealers and recovered approximately 30 rolls of cannabis (bhang), an unrolled bundle of cannabis sativa weighing about 12 kilograms, and 39,000 sticks of uncustomed cigarettes,” the NPS stated.
The discovery marked one of the larger hauls made in recent weeks as authorities intensify their crackdown on narcotics and contraband goods circulating within Western Kenya. Officers also said the seized exhibits had already been secured and were being processed for court presentation.
The two persons of interest remain in custody as investigations continue. Detectives are now working to trace the source of the 12 kilograms of cannabis and identify the wider network believed to be supplying the region. Police say the 39,000 sticks of illicit cigarettes recovered also point to a smuggling route that they intend to dismantle.
In its appeal to the public, NPS emphasised the importance of partnership between communities and law enforcement in curbing drug distribution.
“The National Police Service continues to collaborate closely with the public in combating drug trafficking and urges residents to report suspicious activities anonymously through emergency hotlines,” the statement added.
Police say they will continue conducting intelligence-led operations across the county to disrupt drug supply and protect the community, especially vulnerable groups.