The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and
Drug Abuse (NACADA) conducted a successful midnight operation in Nanyuki,
Laikipia County, where two suspects were arrested for selling the banned shisha
substance.
The operation, led by Senior Superintendent of Police
Nicholas Kosgey, NACADA’s Head of Enforcement, targeted several establishments
suspected of flouting the shisha ban.
At the Fowntown joint, the enforcement team apprehended two men
found selling shisha and confiscated 10 shisha pots, 16 flavour boxes, and
assorted paraphernalia.
The suspects were
booked at Nanyuki Police Station pending further investigations.
NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, issued a stern warning to
businesses still dealing in shisha, emphasizing that the agency’s enforcement
efforts remain relentless.
“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
stated.
“This operation in
Nanyuki is part of our sustained nationwide crackdown, and we urge the public
to report any outlets flouting the law.”
The operation also inspected several other establishments in
Nanyuki, though no additional shisha was found.
NACADA has heightened surveillance across the country,
particularly in entertainment hubs, to ensure compliance with the ban imposed
in 2017 due to shisha’s severe health risks, including addiction and
respiratory diseases.
Kosgey warned that those caught violating the ban will face
the full force of the law.
“We will continue
conducting such operations without prior notice. Business owners must adhere to
the law or risk arrest and prosecution,” he said.
The public has been urged to support NACADA’s efforts by
reporting illegal shisha sales through its toll-free line.
The agency said it remains committed to safeguarding youth
and the general public from the dangers of drug abuse.
