Two arrested in Nanyuki in NACADA shisha crackdown

Two suspects were arrested on Friday night in Nanyuki, Laikipia County for selling shisha, which has been outlawed since 2017, at a local pub.

This follows a nationwide crackdown led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and the National Police Service (NPS), targeting entertainment joints that are flouting the ban in  the region.

The suspects were arrested at Downtown Joint in Nanyuki, where the enforcement team confiscated 10 shisha pots, 16 boxes of flavor, and assorted paraphernalia.

They were subsequently booked at Nanyuki Police Station pending further investigations.

NACADA CEO, Dr Anthony Omerikwa, issued a strong warning to businesses still dealing in shisha, stressing that the agency’s enforcement efforts will continue without relent.

“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.” 

On his part, Senior Superintendent of Police Nicholas 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.