Police Arrest Suspects in Migori and Tana North Anti-Narcotics Operations

Migori, Kenya — 2025-09-12 18:10 EAT. Police in Migori and Tana North sub-counties have arrested multiple suspects and seized cannabis and illicit alcohol in separate anti-narcotics crackdowns, the National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed.

The Latest

• Migori County:

  • Awendo Police flagged down a motorcycle along the Migori–Kisii road after a tip-off.

  • The passenger fled into a sugar-cane plantation, leaving the rider and a package.

  • Officers recovered about 4 kilograms of cannabis sativa; the rider was arrested and escorted to Awendo Police Station.

• Tana North Sub-County:

  • Police on patrol in Kambi Moto village arrested two individuals with 40 litres of makole, an illicit brew.

  • The alcohol was secured as evidence; suspects await arraignment.

Context in Brief

• The NPS has intensified rural anti-narcotics operations amid rising concerns about drug trafficking and illicit alcohol in western and coastal Kenya.

• Cannabis sativa remains a controlled narcotic under Kenyan law, with trafficking carrying severe penalties.

• Makole and other unregulated brews are linked to health hazards, including poisoning incidents in several counties.

Voices and Stakeholders

• National Police Service: Praised officers for vigilance and urged residents to report suspicious activities to curb trafficking networks.

• Local communities: Have repeatedly called for tougher action against drug dealers and illicit brewers, citing addiction and security concerns.

Implications

• Public health: Illicit brews like makole often bypass safety standards, risking fatalities and chronic health problems.

• Security: Narcotics trade funds criminal gangs and undermines rural safety.

• Legal outcomes: Suspects face charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Actand local alcohol control laws.

What to Watch

• Court proceedings for the arrested suspects in Migori and Tana North.

• Whether police extend the crackdown to neighbouring counties.

• Potential coordination with anti-narcotics agencies for intelligence-led operations.