Contraband Worth Over Sh2.9 Million Seized In Bondo

Authorities have seized contraband worth more than Sh2.9 million in Bondo Sub-County, Siaya County, following a major operation targeting drug trafficking and the sale of illicit liquor.

The multi-agency raid, led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), was carried out after a tip-off from members of the public. It targeted a suspected drug dealer’s hideout at Nyamonye Market.

NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa confirmed the operation in a statement to the press, terming it a big win in the fight against drug and alcohol abuse.

“This operation marks a significant victory in our relentless war against drug abuse and illegal alcohol trade,” said Dr. Omerikwa. “We will not allow unscrupulous traders to destroy the lives of our youth.”

The team raided the home, business premises, and rental houses of a suspect identified as Francis Odhiambo Ochieng. During the search, officers recovered 4,600 rolls of suspected cannabis sativa, 11 brooms of bhang pending analysis, and eight cartons of Supermatch cigarettes allegedly destined for Uganda and South Sudan.

Other items seized include 118 cartons of Challenger spirits, 107 cartons of Simba Waragi, and 12 cartons of Dry Gin. Officers also discovered four cash safes believed to contain proceeds from the illegal trade. The safes are under examination to determine the total amount of money inside.

Two suspects, Francis Odhiambo Ochieng and Everlyne Atieno Amungo, were arrested and are currently being held at Bondo Police Station. They are expected to appear in court on Monday.

This latest raid comes just days after authorities seized drugs worth Sh8 million in Kisii County. NACADA says the operations are part of a wider effort to dismantle illegal networks dealing in narcotics and illicit brews.

“This is just the beginning,” Dr. Omerikwa warned. “We are scaling up operations across the country to dismantle these criminal networks and safeguard our youth.”