In a bold move to tackle the menace of drug abuse among youth, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen today declared war on the scourge at the 18th Jukwaa La Usalama forum held at the Uasin Gishu County Commissioner’s Office.
Coordinated Efforts to Eradicate Drug
AbuseMurkomen revealed that hard drugs, including marijuana and heroin, have been found in the county, and pledged to work with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), security teams, and sub-county chiefs to eliminate the problem through coordinated raids, swift prosecutions, and community engagement.
The CS urged the county security committee to partner with NACADA to identify and destroy illicit grow-ops and unlicensed brews.
“Businessmen and women are selling second-generation alcohol and transporting it from neighboring counties, as well as locally manufacturing it,” he said. “They must be charged under national drug laws.”Protection for Anti-Drug Operation OfficersTo protect officers on the front lines, Murkomen issued a stern warning: “No police officer will be transferred under our watch.”
He promised that anyone who harasses or intimidates officers carrying out lawful anti-drug operations will face charges.
Crackdown on Other Security Issues
Murkomen also highlighted other pressing security concerns affecting Eldoret, including rising cases of fraud, particularly land scams and mobile money swindles.
He advised residents to exercise caution in transactions and consult legal professionals when necessary to avoid falling victim. The CS stressed that the government will take firm action against those illegally occupying land or forging documents and directed the police to deal decisively with such crimes.
Encouraging Youth to Register for National IDs
As he concluded his remarks, Murkomen encouraged youth to register for national IDs, noting that improved live-capture systems in sub-counties will ensure ID cards are issued within seven days.
“Many young people above 18 still don’t have IDs,” he said. “We want them to access government services and participate in making decisions in the next elections.”
