By Duncan Waswa
BUNGOMA July 16, 2025 – Authorities in Bungoma County have seized over 350 kilograms of bhang valued at approximately KSh 9 million in a major anti-narcotics operation along the Bungoma–Mumias highway.
The bust occurred early Tuesday morning in Watoya village, Bumula Constituency, when law enforcement officers intercepted a consignment being transported under the cover of darkness. The suspects, however, managed to flee, abandoning the vehicle and the illicit cargo.
Bumula Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Haddiah Abdallah hailed the operation as a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking in the region. She credited the success to close collaboration between the police and vigilant members of the public who provided critical intelligence.
“This is a major stride in our ongoing efforts to rid our communities of illegal drugs,” said Abdallah. “We urge residents to continue supporting security agencies by sharing information that will help dismantle these criminal networks.”
Abdallah also emphasized that the government alone cannot win the war on drugs without sustained community involvement, warning of the devastating impact of narcotics on youth and public safety.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the bhang was likely smuggled from neighboring Uganda and was possibly headed to urban centers for distribution. However, the exact destination remains unclear, with police intensifying their investigations.
Bumula Sub-County Police Commander Aggrey Makomere said the seizure points to an elaborate smuggling network using rural backroads to avoid detection.
“This operation reveals the growing sophistication of traffickers exploiting porous border areas and interior routes,” Makomere said. “We are tightening surveillance along key corridors and ramping up patrols to prevent further incursions.”
Makomere added that forensic analysis is underway on the vehicle and items recovered at the scene to help identify the traffickers.
The seizure comes amid growing concern over the rise in drug trafficking cases in western Kenya. Civil society organizations and local leaders have raised alarm over increased drug abuse among young people, linking it to school dropouts, mental health issues, and rising criminal activity.
Despite Kenya’s strict anti-narcotics laws, drug smuggling remains a persistent challenge, especially in border counties like Bungoma.
Local residents in Watoya have lauded the police for their swift action and called for more consistent patrols in the area. Many expressed shock at how such a large consignment managed to pass through their village undetected until the interception.
“We’re proud of the police, but we also want more protection. This incident shows how vulnerable our community could be to criminals,” said one resident.
The confiscated drugs have been secured as evidence and will form part of an ongoing investigation. Police say arrests are imminent as leads are followed up.
Meanwhile, the Bungoma County security team has reiterated its commitment to fighting narcotics, vowing to sustain the crackdown on traffickers and bring all those involved to justice.
“Let this serve as a warning,” DCC Abdallah said. “Bungoma will not be a safe haven for drug peddlers. We are coming for you.”
