A total of 266 kilogrammes of bhang seized as evidence in a drug trafficking case has been destroyed at the incinerator facility of AIC Kapsowar Mission Hospital in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
The destruction was conducted on Tuesday under court supervision, following an order issued by the Iten Law Courts on October 30, 2026.
The narcotics were linked to a case in which Vincent Odhiambo was convicted of trafficking in narcotic drugs and sentenced to 10 years in prison, with a fine of KSh 24 million as an alternative.
The exercise, which began at 8:20am and ended at 10:20am, was presided over by Senior Principal Magistrate Gladys Adhiambo of the Iten Law Courts.
It was witnessed by the Elgeyo Marakwet County Security Team, the County Director of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), representatives of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), public health officers and senior police officers, alongside the Marakwet West Sub-County Security Team.
The destruction was part of government efforts to combat drug trafficking and ensure seized narcotics are disposed of in accordance with the law.
Authorities say the exercise also reinforces ongoing efforts to protect communities from the harmful effects of illicit drugs.
The presence of judicial, security and environmental officials was intended to ensure the disposal process complied with the relevant legal and public health requirements.
The operation also highlighted the importance of coordination among law enforcement agencies, the judiciary and other government institutions in addressing the growing challenge of illicit drugs.
Drug trafficking remains a major concern for authorities, given its potential impact on public safety, community wellbeing and the livelihoods of vulnerable populations, particularly young people.
The government has continued to emphasise the need for sustained enforcement, prosecution of offenders and public awareness campaigns as part of broader efforts to curb the trade in narcotic substances.
The court-supervised destruction marks the conclusion of the handling of the bhang as an exhibit in the case, following the conviction and sentencing of the accused.
