Police in Embu West have arrested a middle-aged man who was nabbed with 160 stems of bhang planted on his compound in Gakwengori.
While confirming the incident, Embu West Assistant County Commissioner Charles Opiyo said they acted on a tip-off from members of the public before pouncing on the suspect.
However, the man’s arrest turned dramatic when he purported that he only planted the drug for personal use as detox.
The suspect identified as James Gitonga went ahead to explain to detectives that he had only planted 160 stems for his personal use for a short period of time he was going to be in his house before jetting back to his place of work.
“You see this plant I haven’t planted it for sale but to use as detox. I boil it when it’s still green then drink the substance. If it was for sale then I would have planted more as you see I have more seeds. I am going to be around for a short time that is why you can see I have few stems,” the suspect said as he pleaded with police.
Further, he pleaded with detectives not to arrest him since he did see any illegal dealings that he was doing, adding that his product was medicinal and that it was very useful to his body.
The suspect went ahead to explain to police that there was a time when a doctor prescribed the drug for him but did not produce any document to support the claims.
The suspect has been booked at Itabua police station awaiting arraignment after investigations.
Opiyo warned those engaging in illegal activities that they would face the wrath of the law, affirming the government’s commitment to fighting illegal businesses.
“We will not allow any person to engage in illegal activities like growing bhang, the law will take its course,” Opiyo affirmed.
