Police seize 270 rolls of bhang, illicit goods in Siaya anti-drug operation
Police in Siaya County have intensified the war on drugs and contraband following a major operation on July 3, 2025, that led to the arrest of one suspect and the recovery of narcotics and illicit goods.
The operation, led by officers from Bondo Police Station in Nyang’oma Sub-Location, uncovered 270 rolls of bhang (cannabis), 50 kilograms of smuggled Ugandan Bugiri brown sugar, and 78 packets of export cigarettes.
“Police officers from Bondo Police Station yesterday, 3 July 2025, conducted a successful operation targeting illicit brews and narcotics in Nyang’oma Sub-Location, Siaya County,” a post on NPS’s X account dated July 4, 2025, stated.
“During the operation, one suspect was arrested and found in possession of 270 rolls of bhang, uncustomed goods, including 50 kilograms of Ugandan sugar, and 78 packets of export cigarettes, among other items,” the statement added.
The seizure, authorities say, signals the intersection of narcotics and cross-border smuggling. Nyang’oma lies in proximity to the Busia border—a known smuggling route—raising concerns of organised criminal networks operating in the region.
The NPS revealed that the person of interest was placed in police custody, pending processing and arraignment in court.
“The suspect was placed in police custody, pending processing and arraignment in court,” read the post.
The inclusion of export cigarettes in the haul points to a layered operation that may involve both local and international trafficking networks.
In a statement, the National Police Service (NPS) reiterated its commitment to tackling illicit trade and narcotics.
“The National Police Service reiterates its unwavering commitment to combating narcotics and other illegal activities,” the statement read.
This latest bust follows the seizure of 5,660 rolls of bhang in Kamulu on July 1, marking a series of sustained efforts by law enforcement to disrupt the drug trade. However, police continue to face challenges, including limited border surveillance capacity and evolving tactics by traffickers.
Local residents have lauded the operation, expressing hope it will serve as a deterrent in the fight against drugs and illegal trade. Investigations are underway to trace the origin of the seized goods and dismantle the networks behind their distribution.
As the person of interest awaits legal proceedings, the NPS has vowed to maintain pressure on criminal syndicates, calling on the public to support efforts to safeguard communities from the dangers of narcotics and contraband.
