Kenyan authorities have arrested a suspect in Bungoma County during a targeted operation against the illegal drug trade.

The National Police Service (NPS) confirmed the arrest as part of ongoing efforts to curb the circulation of narcotics in the region.

The crackdown followed a tip-off from the public, prompting police officers from the Brigadier Police Station in Tongaren Sub-County to act.

The operation took place on Sunday afternoon in Misanga Village, where officers apprehended a suspect found in possession of illegal drugs.

“Acting on a tip-off from the public, police officers from Brigadier Police Station in Tongaren Sub-County conducted an operation in Misanga Village on Sunday afternoon. During the operation, they arrested a suspect who was found in possession of narcotics,” read the NPS X post dated September 29, 2025.

According to the NPS, the person of interest was discovered with 64 brooms of cannabis, locally known as bhang. The recovered evidence has been secured at the police station, and the suspect remains in custody pending arraignment.

“The suspect was found with 64 brooms of cannabis (bhang). The recovered evidence was secured at the station, and the suspect placed in custody pending arraignment.”

Community involvement

The NPS highlighted the critical role of community cooperation in the success of the operation.

In the statement, the service noted that public vigilance and timely reporting were key in identifying the suspect and preventing further circulation of narcotics. The NPS called on the public to remain alert and continue supporting law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

“National Police Service commends the officers’ swift action and reiterates its commitment to intensifying the crackdown on illicit drugs across the region.”

Following the arrest, the NPS commended officers for their swift action and reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying crackdowns on illicit drugs across Bungoma County.

The service has emphasized the importance of vigilance and public participation in combating the drug trade. Residents are encouraged to use multiple reporting channels, including hotlines to share information about illegal activities.

“The Service urges the public to remain vigilant and to continue supporting law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.”