The Kenyan government has intensified its campaign against illegal drug use with a coordinated operation targeting unauthorized shisha outlets in Nairobi over the weekend.
The exercise, led by the Division of Drug and Substance Abuse Control under the Ministry of Health, saw multiple arrests and the confiscation of illegal shisha equipment.
In a press statement issued on Monday, the Ministry of Health confirmed that the crackdown was carried out in partnership with a multi-agency team of law enforcement officers. The statement termed the move as “a critical step in our ongoing efforts to enforce the national shisha ban and safeguard public health.”
You May Also Like
“During this weekend’s operation, several offenders were arrested, and multiple shisha delivery systems were impounded. Those taken into custody will be arraigned in court on Monday for violating the law,” said Mary Muthoni Muriuki, Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Health, in the official release.
The Ministry stated that the operation in Nairobi was only the beginning. Plans are underway to expand similar enforcement exercises across the country in a bid to fully uphold the ban on shisha use, which was first introduced in 2017 through a Gazette Notice citing health risks.
“We wish to emphasize that this enforcement exercise is just the beginning. Operations to enforce the shisha ban will continue countrywide until this ban is upheld to the fullest,” the statement added.
The ban was initially implemented to curb the rising health hazards associated with smoking shisha, including increased risks of respiratory diseases, cancers, and heart conditions. Despite the ban, many establishments in urban areas have continued to offer the product discreetly, often evading law enforcement.
The Ministry is now calling on the public to support its efforts by reporting any illegal shisha activity.
“We urge the public to support these efforts by reporting any illegal shisha outlets to the relevant authorities. Together, we can ensure a healthier future for our youth and all future generations,” said Ms. Muriuki.
More Stories
Kenya Railways Announces Additional SGR Trips to Meet Rising Passenger Demand
Father Jailed for 30 Years for Defiling Stepdaughter
KRA Appoints George Obell as Commissioner for Micro and Small Taxpayers Department
Gospel Artist Betty Bayo Passes Away
Bishop Emeritus Philip Sulumeti Passes Away at 88
