A multi-agency crackdown on illicit drugs and illegal brews has gained momentum across the country, with police reporting major seizures and arrests in several counties in a renewed push to dismantle supply networks.

The coordinated operations, led by the National Police Service (NPS) with support from other government agencies, have targeted known hotspots, yielding a number of recoveries and underscoring the scale of the illegal trade.

“The operations, conducted by police officers supported by other agencies, demonstrate a sustained commitment to dismantling illegal supply chains and protecting communities from the harmful effects of substance abuse,” NPS said in an X statement on May 6, 2026.

Police raids

In Meru County, officers raided the Kaguma area in Gaitu East Location, Imenti Central Sub-County, where they seized about 1,700 litres of illicit brew, commonly known as mugacha. One person of interest was arrested and taken to Gaitu Police Station and is being held pending arraignment.

In Bungoma County, enforcement efforts resulted in multiple arrests and significant recoveries across different locations. In Chemogee Sub-location, officers arrested one and confiscated 20 litres of busaa.

A separate, more extensive crackdown in Mayanya Vitunguu, conducted with the support of National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), led to the arrest of seven persons of interest and the recovery of 6,430 litres of kangara and 62 litres of chang’aa.

Nyamira and Kiambu raids

Elsewhere, a multi-agency team in Nyamira County raided Miti Mbili Village, arresting two and recovering 20 litres of a substance believed to be chang’aa stored in a jerrican.

In Kiambu County, police on mobile patrol arrested one found in possession of 24 rolls of cannabis, along with rolling papers and other items believed to be used in distribution.

A similar case was reported in Murang’a County, where officers attached to Kabati Police Station recovered 35 rolls of cannabis sativa. The person of interest has since been charged, with the exhibits preserved for analysis by the government chemist.

In the Nairobi area region, authorities arrested one person found in possession of 80 rolls of bhang, further underscoring the widespread nature of narcotics distribution networks in urban settings.

Police commitment

The police e noted that the operations reflect both the widespread nature of illicit drugs and brews and a renewed determination to curb their circulation.

“The significant quantities of illicit substances seized and the number of arrests made reflect both the scale of the problem and the determination of authorities to address it decisively. Continued vigilance and community cooperation remain critical in sustaining these gains and curbing the proliferation of illegal drugs and brews nationwide,” NPS noted.