Lugari: Police officers in Lugari, Kakamega County have arrested a suspected drug peddler and recovered 20 kilograms of Cannabis sativa (bhang) with a street value of Sh.200,000.
According to Kenya News Agency, confirming the arrest, Lugari Deputy County Commissioner Jeremiah Tumo said the suspect was apprehended early Monday following a tip-off from members of the public. Tumo explained that officers from Lumakanda police station received information about a suspect transporting cannabis sativa in a small Daihatsu motor vehicle. Acting on this tip-off, the officers set up an ambush in Turbo along the Eldoret-Webuye road.
The suspect, upon noticing the police presence, attempted to evade capture by speeding towards Turbo town. The police promptly gave chase and intercepted the vehicle a few meters from Turbo market, where the suspect had stopped, attempting to avoid arrest. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of 20 kilograms of cannabis sativa in the boot. The suspect initially resisted arrest by pretending to be a passenger, but the police were able to confirm his identity as the driver through vehicle documentation.
Tumo indicated that they suspect the individual is a notorious peddler, and the seized package was likely the last portion of a larger consignment sold between Busia and Lumakanda. The impounded vehicle, marked with the code name “Sibuor 004,” suggests the use of multiple similar vehicles by cartels to transport narcotics, posing a threat to the youth in the area.
The suspect is currently undergoing processing and is expected to be arraigned in court on Tuesday. Tumo issued a warning to drug peddlers and illicit liquor traders, noting that security measures along the highways have been intensified to combat these illegal activities. He emphasized the collaboration with community members, activating community policing and the Nyumba Kumi units, alongside chiefs, their assistants, and village elders, to address the drug and illicit brew problem in the subcounty.
Tumo commended the Lugari police officers for their efforts in combating drug trafficking, aligning with the government’s Rapid Result Initiative launched from January 9 to April 20, aimed at eradicating drug and alcohol abuse and the growing gang culture nationwide.
