A recent enforcement operation by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has reinforced the government’s tough stance on the illegal shisha trade in Kenya. Acting on intelligence reports, authorities conducted a late-night raid in Nanyuki, Laikipia County, leading to the arrest of two individuals accused of selling the prohibited substance.
Led by Senior Superintendent of Police Nicholas Kosgey, NACADA’s Head of Enforcement, the operation honed in on establishments suspected of defying the shisha ban. At one such location, the Downtown joint, officials apprehended two suspects and seized 10 shisha pots, 16 boxes of flavored tobacco, and various smoking paraphernalia. The individuals were taken into custody at Nanyuki Police Station as investigations continue.
NACADA CEO, Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, underscored the agency’s unwavering commitment to upholding the ban, warning businesses that continue to engage in the illicit trade. “The sale and use of shisha is illegal in Kenya, and NACADA will not relent in its efforts to eradicate this public health menace,” he affirmed. “This operation in Nanyuki is part of our sustained nationwide crackdown, and we urge the public to report any outlets flouting the law.”
While the Nanyuki operation yielded arrests and confiscations, inspections at other establishments did not uncover additional violations. NACADA maintains that such crackdowns will persist to ensure full compliance with the law, emphasizing the health risks associated with shisha consumption. As the fight against illegal drug use continues, the agency calls on citizens to play their part by reporting unlawful activities that undermine public health and safety.
