Ruto orders formation of Anti-Narcotics Special Force in intensified war on drug barons

During a multi-agency security meeting at State House Nairobi, President William Ruto resolved to formulate a legal framework within ten days to strengthen coordination, enforcement and accountability across government departments.

President Ruto also directed the establishment of rehabilitation centres in all 47 counties.

Details on the formation of the new anti-narcotics SWAT team were revealed during a multi-agency security meeting chaired by President William Ruto at State House attended by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja.

Others include Deputy Inspectors-General Eliud Lang'at and Gilbert Masengeli, DCI Mohammed Amin, NACADA Chairman Stephen Mairori and CEO Anthony Omerikwa, and KEBS Managing Director Esther Ngari.

Inspector General Douglas Kanja says a paramilitary special force has been identified for deployment to the Anti-Narcotics Unit, with resources already provided for their training.

As part of tightening the noose on drug barons, the Office of the Attorney General, in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, will formulate a legal framework within the next 10 days aimed at disrupting drug trafficking networks and related organised crime.

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse has beentasked with ensuring that the rehabilitation facilities are fully operational and accessible.

The Social Health Authority has also been mandated to enhance the treatment cover for rehabilitation of persons affected by substance abuse through financing of care, referral pathways, and improvement of recovery outcomes.