Authorities in Kisii County have destroyed more than 4.6 tonnes of contraband sugar and bhang in a major crackdown aimed at curbing drug trafficking and protecting consumers from illegal products.
The destruction exercise, carried out at the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital incinerator on Friday, June 26, saw 3,600 kilograms of contraband sugar and 1,040 kilograms of bhang (cannabis) reduced to ashes under the supervision of judicial officers, police and environmental authorities.
According to officials, the exhibits had been stored at the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kisii after being seized in cases investigated by the National Police Service (NPS) and later concluded by the courts.
“The destruction was carried out pursuant to lawful court orders and under the supervision of the Kisii Law Courts, in full compliance with the legal procedures for the disposal of exhibits,” authorities said in a statement.
Officials said the exercise underscored the commitment of the criminal justice system and law enforcement agencies to ensure that illegal goods do not find their way back into the market.
“In addition to meeting these legal requirements, the exercise demonstrates the criminal justice system’s and law enforcement agencies’ strong commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting public safety,” the statement added.
Contraband sugar has in recent years become a major concern in Kenya due to fears over its quality and safety, with authorities warning that illegally imported or adulterated sugar could pose health risks to consumers.
The destruction of more than one tonne of cannabis also highlights the government’s continued efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks and curb substance abuse, particularly among young people.
“It also reaffirms the unwavering commitment of law enforcement and partner agencies in the fight against drug trafficking, substance abuse, and other forms of organised crime, thereby contributing to a safer and healthier community for the people of Kisii County and the country at large,” the statement said.
The exercise was witnessed by Kisii Law Courts magistrate Hon. Mildred Obura, Court Registrar Hon. Winnie Keter, Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital Chief Executive Officer Dr. Marita Oimeke and Kisii County Director of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Simon Tonui.
Also present were members of the County Unit Coordination Committee (CUCs), officers from the National Police Service led by Kisii County Police Commander Ronald Kirui, and other stakeholders.
Authorities said the destruction of the exhibits sends a strong message that Kenya’s security agencies remain steadfast in their fight against drug trafficking, illegal trade and organised crime.
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