Government Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Shisha Outlets in Nairobi
The government has launched a renewed and aggressive crackdown on illegal shisha outlets in Nairobi, arresting several individuals and confiscating shisha equipment in a multi-agency operation over the weekend.
The Ministry of Health, through the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, confirmed that the coordinated operation targeted premises violating Kenya’s long-standing ban on shisha. The crackdown was spearheaded by the Division of Drug and Substance Abuse Control, in partnership with a multi-agency team of law enforcement officers.
According to the Ministry, the arrested individuals will be arraigned in court to face charges related to the importation, distribution, and consumption of shisha — all of which are prohibited under Kenyan law.
“This operation is a critical step in our ongoing efforts to enforce the national shisha ban and safeguard public health,” said the Ministry in an official statement. “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.”
Why Shisha Remains Banned
The government imposed a total ban on shisha in 2017, citing serious health concerns. Shisha smoking is linked to severe respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and increased exposure to toxic substances. Research indicates that a single session of shisha use may expose a smoker to more carbon monoxide and harmful chemicals than an entire pack of cigarettes.
Despite the ban, some establishments in Nairobi and other urban centres have continued to operate illegal shisha lounges and supply chains, prompting this latest wave of enforcement.
Public Support Urged
The Ministry of Health has called upon citizens to support the campaign by reporting any suspicious or illegal shisha activity to relevant authorities.
“The Ministry of Health remains committed to protecting the health of our citizens and will work tirelessly to eliminate violations of this ban,” the statement concluded. “We urge the public to support these efforts by reporting any illegal shisha outlets to the relevant authorities.”
This sweeping enforcement initiative reflects the government’s heightened commitment to stamping out illicit public health risks and reaffirming the country’s dedication to a drug-free society.
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Government Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Shisha Outlets in Nairobi