Police in Teso South have intercepted a Toyota Probox carrying five sacks of suspected cannabis worth about Sh2.07 million. The seizure, made during a routine patrol at Amaase Market on Wednesday, led to the arrest of one suspect, who is now in custody awaiting court arraignment.
According to the National Police Service (NPS), the vehicle, registered KBQ 320G, contained 69 kilograms of suspected Cannabis sativa (bhang). The drugs and the vehicle have been secured as evidence as investigations continue.
Authorities said the cannabis was likely being transported for distribution within the region, but they did not reveal the intended destination or whether additional suspects are being sought.
“The National Police Service commends the officers for their excellent work in the fight against narcotics and illicit brews,” the statement read, highlighting the crucial role of police vigilance in curbing drug trafficking.
The bust comes amid intensified crackdowns across the country targeting traffickers who often use private vehicles to move narcotics between counties. Police urged the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities that could help dismantle drug networks operating in the region.
Kenya has recorded a sharp increase in cannabis use over the past five years. National data shows a 90% rise in prevalence between 2017 and 2022, with nearly one million people currently using the drug.
A 2022 NACADA survey revealed that 518,807 Kenyans aged 15–65 are current users, with usage highest among males, urban residents, and youth in Nairobi, where prevalence reaches 9.7%. The survey also indicated that 234,855 Kenyans are addicted to cannabis, showing the severity of substance use disorders.
Trafficking remains a persistent challenge as routes continuously change. Kenya serves as both a transit and destination country for cannabis from Tanzania, Uganda, and Ethiopia, while internal transport often passes through counties such as Migori.
Despite over 3.2 tonnes of narcotics seized between 2024 and 2025, the National Crime Research Centre reports that enforcement frequently targets minor traffickers rather than major networks. Traffickers continue to evade capture through constant route changes and surveillance.
The NPS stressed that operations like the Amaase Market bust form part of broader efforts to protect communities, prevent drug distribution, and ensure offenders face justice.
