BUSIA, Kenya- Officers from the National Police Service have intercepted a consignment of contraband alcohol and suspected narcotics during a security operation along the Busia–Kisumu Road.
The operation, conducted on May 3, 2026, took place at the Suo roadblock in a coordinated multi-agency crackdown targeting illicit trade and drug trafficking.
What was recovered
According to police, officers stopped a Nairobi-bound public service minibus for routine inspection before uncovering the illegal cargo.
A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of:
- 24 packages of uncustomed Simba Gin, each containing 24 bottles (200ml), and
- Five bales of substances suspected to be Cannabis sativa.
Arrests and investigation
The driver of the vehicle was arrested at the scene and taken into custody, with police indicating he will be processed and arraigned in court.
Authorities also confirmed that one suspect managed to escape during the operation, with efforts underway to trace and apprehend them.
The vehicle used to transport the goods has since been detained as part of ongoing investigations.
Police say the operation underscores their continued efforts to combat illegal alcohol distribution, narcotics trafficking and related criminal activities across the country.
The Busia–Kisumu corridor is among key routes frequently targeted by law enforcement agencies due to its proximity to the Kenya-Uganda border, which has historically been used for smuggling goods.
Investigations remain ongoing as officers work to establish the origin and intended destination of the seized contraband.
