Police in Busia County have seized 59 kilograms of bhang valued at Sh1.7 million and arrested two suspects over alleged possession and transportation of the illegal substance from Uganda to Nairobi.

Busia County Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO) Wesley Lagat said the suspects were arrested at the Suo roadblock following a tip-off from members of the public.

“We have nabbed 59kg of bhang worth Sh1.7 million that was being transported to Nairobi from our neighboring country, Uganda. The bhang was hidden in two sacks of cassava,” said Lagat.

He said the sacks had been packed in a Fuso lorry transporting maize, adding that police had identified the person who loaded the consignment and launched investigations to establish the owner of the bhang.

Lagat said the suspects were being processed for arraignment in court to face charges related to possession and transportation of the illegal substance.

He warned individuals involved in drug trafficking that security agencies had intensified surveillance and operations to curb the illegal trade.

“We urge members of the public to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing crucial information that can lead to the arrest of those breaking the law. Those transporting illegal goods should know that we are alert and will ensure the law takes its course,” he said.

Lagat acknowledged an increase in reported bhang trafficking cases in the county, attributing the challenge partly to the numerous porous border routes used by traffickers to move illegal substances.

“In recent months, a lot of bhang has been seized in this county. This clearly shows that illegal business is on the rise. We have beefed up our patrols to ensure the problem is addressed,” he said.

He added that security officers had recently arrested several riders suspected of using motorcycles to transport bhang and pledged continued operations to dismantle trafficking networks in the region.

by Salome Alwanda /Rodgers Omondi