In Malaba town, located in Busia County, authorities recently seized a significant amount of illicit substances. The intercepted items included 18 kilograms of marijuana, commonly known as bhang, and 10 liters of chang’aa, a locally brewed alcoholic drink. These substances were reportedly being transported from Uganda to Kayole, Nairobi.
OCPD Teso North, Joseph Matiku, confirmed the incident, stating that they received a tip-off from vigilant members of the public regarding three individuals behaving suspiciously. Acting swiftly upon this information, officers intercepted a matatu belonging to the Eldoret Shuttle Sacco around 1 pm.
Upon inspecting the luggage belonging to the three individuals—a senior woman suspected to be the main distributor and two middle-aged men—the police discovered 18 stones of suspected bhang and 10 liters of chang’aa. Consequently, all three individuals were apprehended and are currently aiding the police in their investigations.
This seizure underscores the ongoing efforts of the Kenya Kwanza Government to combat the proliferation of illicit brews and substance abuse. OCPD Matiku emphasized the need for continued vigilance, stating that all vehicles originating from Malaba will undergo regular inspections to curb the smuggling of illegal substances, which has been a prevalent issue in the region bordering Uganda.
He further emphasized that the police force remains on high alert and is diligently searching every vehicle to prevent the transportation of illegal goods through the region’s roads. While border points are equipped with scanners, additional measures are taken to address the use of unauthorized entry points by smugglers.
