Police nab 2 in Nyatike crackdown on narcotics and illicit brews
By Cynthia Lodite, August 11, 2025The National Police Service (NPS) have apprehended two key persons of interest in a police-led operation targeting the sale and distribution of narcotics and illicit brews in Nyatike Sub-County, Migori County.
According to a statement released by The National Police Service on Monday, August 11, 2025, the duo were nabbed on Sunday, August 11, 2025, after a targeted crackdown on drug trafficking and illegal brews in the area.
“A decisive police operation in Nyatike Sub-County, Migori County, led to the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of narcotics and illicit alcohol. On 10th August 2025, officers from Karungu Police Station intensified a targeted crackdown on drug trafficking and illegal brews in the area,” NPS said.
Similarly, according to the National Police Service, at the time of apprehension, one of the persons of interest was found in possession of at least 140 rolls, a broom, and 40 sticks of a substance suspected to be cannabis sativa (bhang).
Likewise, on the other hand, in a separate incident, the second person of interest was found in possession of 1.5 litres of a banned illicit brew widely known as chang’aa.
“One suspect was found in possession of 140 rolls, one broom, and 40 sticks of a substance believed to be cannabis sativa (bhang), while a second suspect was apprehended with 1.5 litres of a suspected chang’aa brew,” NPS said.
Notably, according to the authority, both individuals are currently in police custody and will be processed for arraignment. The National Police Service reiterated its commitment to stamping out the sale of illegal drugs and brews, calling on the public to support law enforcement efforts by reporting suspicious activities.
“Both suspects were placed in police custody pending processing and arraignment. The National Police Service remains resolute in its efforts to eradicate illicit drugs and alcohol,” NPS said.
CS Murkomen’s message on illicit liquor
Worth noting, the crackdown follows Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen’s remarks. In a move aimed at combating illegal alcohol, the Interior Cabinet warned chiefs who fail to enforce the ban on illicit liquor of dismissal.
Speaking during a church service in Makutano, Meru County, the CS cautioned the local administrators against neglecting their duties as the government intensifies its crackdown on illicit brew, emphasising the need for strict compliance.
Murkomen urged the chiefs to take their responsibilities seriously in regard to taking strict action against those who engage in illicit brew trade and use, warning that inaction would not be tolerated.
“The reason why the government has the chief and assistant chief is so that they keep an eye on all households, and it’s not possible for illicit brew to be sold at any village without the chief or assistant chief’s awareness,” Murkomen said.