Police in Eldoret have launched a manhunt for a man linked to a drug trafficking syndicate in Uasin Gishu County.
The search follows the discovery of over 100 cannabis sativa plants, locally known as bhang, at a rental house at Elgon View Estate.
In a statement on Wednesday, July 6, 2022, the National Police Service (NPS) identified the main suspect as Kipchumba Michael Kibet.
According to the police, officers working on intelligence reports yesterday conducted a thorough search in two buildings within the compound and recovered 21 cannabis plants in the main bedroom, and 68 in the sitting room.
The offices also found 14 plants in the dining and 26 others in an adjacent iron sheet walled house, which they uprooted.
Assorted personal documents were also recovered during the operation.
“All the plants were uprooted after having been documented by DCI Scenes of Crime personnel,” NPS said.
A RENTAL HOUSE FOR BHANG CULTIVATION BUSTED IN ELDORET
— National Police Service-Kenya (@NPSOfficial_KE) July 6, 2022
Yesterday, the National Police Service officers conducted a successful intelligence led operation at a residence within Elgon View Estate in Eldoret Township. pic.twitter.com/F7e1RUF0ML
The bhang plants, the police said, weighed 33.5 Kgs with a street value of about one million Kenya Shillings.
“A manhunt has been launched to arrest the main suspect namely Kipchumba Michael Kibet,” NPS added.
The police body urged members of the public to volunteer information to aid in the arrest of the suspect.
“We appeal for any information that can lead to the arrest of the suspect and urge the public to desist from engaging in criminal activities,” police added.
Bhang legalisation debate
The latest development comes amid the ongoing debate on whether bhang should be legalised as suggested by presidential candidate George Wajackoyah of the Roots party.
On June 28, 2022, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) warned members of the public that bhang remains illegal in the country.
“Kenyans are reminded that marijuana is a prohibited drug and being found in possession, trafficking or growing the plant attracts heavy penalties of up to 20 years behind bars,” DCI said in a statement.
“Be advised accordingly and disregard any other misleading information.”
