Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has affirmed the government’s determination to combat drug abuse, cautioning against stringent measures on drug dealers in the northeastern region.
Over the past week, National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), in collaboration with the National Police Service (NPS), the County government, the National Authority for Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA), and the Kenya Revenue Authority, have launched a significant crackdown on individuals involved in drug-related activities.
In Garissa, ten individuals have been apprehended as part of the ongoing crackdown.
Several pharmacy outlets have been closed down, with suspects arrested for the sale of psychotropic drugs commonly used by Miraa consumers.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony on the outskirts of Garissa town, Duale reiterated that those found involved in the illegal drug trade would face legal consequences.
He emphasized, “The CS for interior Professor Kithure Kindiki has spoken to the nation on behalf of the cabinet.
As one of the manifestos of the Kenya Kwanza government, we cannot build a country where generations after generations are being destroyed by drugs.”
Duale expressed concern over the rising drug use in the area, highlighting its detrimental impact on society.
Bhang, cocaine, and miraa are among the most abused drugs in the county, contributing to its listing by NACADA as one of the affected areas.
According to the National Institute of Health, Diazepam is commonly used to treat various disorders, including anxiety, alcohol detoxification, seizures, and muscle spasms.
However, Miraa consumers have been found to abuse Diazepam and other injectable drugs intended for medical purposes.
Garissa County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to combating drugs and substance abuse, linking the high divorce rates to drug abuse.
He urged religious leaders to join the fight against the vice by utilizing their platforms in mosques and churches.
Additionally, Mwabudzo proposed a ban on muguka, noting its association with cocaine abuse among users.
Directorate of Criminal Investigations boss Mohamed Amin announced plans to establish an anti-narcotics office in Garissa to address drug trafficking concerns in the northeastern region.
Amin highlighted the growing concern over drugs entering the country from neighboring Ethiopia and emphasized the importance of intelligence-driven actions to tackle drug trafficking.
The establishment of the anti-narcotics office aims to curb drug trafficking, particularly in counties like Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa, where drug-related cases are on the rise.
Trained officers will lead the office, focusing on intercepting drug traffickers and preventing the influx of illegal substances into the country.