Kisii: Security agencies in Kisii County have embarked on a major crackdown on a drug smuggling syndicate that has reportedly infiltrated local urban centres, threatening the social fabrics of the community. Kisii County Police Commander, Ronald Kirui, sounded the alarm during the World Press Freedom Day celebrations, stating that the drug barons have entrenched their influence and operation in the county with impunity, warning that the devastating impact on abusers is grave for local youth and overall society.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kirui emphasized at the event that the drug problem is not just a criminal issue but a societal disaster in waiting, which must be addressed urgently and collectively with the seriousness it deserves. He revealed that the police have already launched intensive operations targeting illegal brews and narcotics, with encouraging results. ‘In a single week, we confiscate no less than 1,000 liters of illegal brews,’ he disclosed, noting such figures reflect how deeply rooted the problem is.
The police chief described the drug crisis as a breeding ground for other crimes, including violence, school dropouts, domestic abuse, and mental health breakdowns, particularly among the youth. He expressed concern that many young people are falling prey to drug addiction, rendering them unproductive and exacerbating unemployment and insecurity in the region. Despite these challenges, Kirui maintained that the county security apparatus is committed to dismantling drug networks and bringing perpetrators to book.
However, he noted that law enforcement cannot win this fight alone and called on journalists and media stakeholders to play an active role. ‘We believe that the media is not just a stakeholder but our number one ally in policing. The press must inform, expose, and educate the public on the dangers of drugs while also highlighting efforts being made to combat the trade,’ he said.
The Commander stressed the importance of ethical journalism, urging reporters to remain factual, responsible, and patriotic in their work. He reminded them of their shared duty with police to protect society, uphold truth, and promote human dignity. ‘Journalists and police share a common mandate protecting the society. Both our institutions exist to safeguard the truth, uphold human rights, and ensure public safety. When you inform the public accurately and responsibly, you are directly contributing to our national values,’ he noted.
Kirui also highlighted Article 10 of the Kenyan Constitution, which outlines national values such as patriotism, public participation, inclusivity, equity, and human rights, all of which, he said, should guide journalists in their daily work. He emphasized that journalists have the power to influence societal behavior and therefore must remain conscious of the impact of their content, especially when reporting on crime. ‘There is no heroism in sensationalizing crime or exposing victims unnecessarily. Always protect victims of crime, especially vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities,’ he cautioned.
He assured journalists of access to credible, timely information to aid their reporting and offered the police service’s full support in promoting a drug-free Kisii County. ‘Let us walk this journey together. When we inform responsibly and enforce decisively, we build a healthier, safer, and more prosperous community.’
The press freedom celebration also featured contributions from senior journalists and media leaders, who echoed the police commander’s sentiments. They encouraged their colleagues to use their platforms to amplify anti-drug campaigns, share success stories from rehabilitation centers, and expose drug lords and brewers hiding in plain sight.