Security officers in Molo on Wednesday netted 200kgs of bhang at Munju area in the outskirts of Molo town.
However, the suspected dealers managed to escape after the arrival of a contingent of police officers at the homestead.
Led by Molo Deputy County Commissioner Ms Judith Cheruiyot and AP commander Mr Joseph Mwangi, the officers joined residents in the raid where the drugs with an estimated street value of Sh500,000 was recovered packed in sacks ready for transportation.
Ms Cheruiyot lauded the community policing team and the Nyumba kumi members who have been working towards making Molo Sub County crime free.
“We want to thank area residents for giving out information to various security departments. I want to assure you that we will continue to respond fast in the war against crime,” added Cheruiyot.
Mr Mwangi affirmed that his officers were on high alert in response to the war on illicit brews and drugs. He said that several illicit brew dens had been shut and suspected brewers jailed.
Area residents led by Ms Julian Wambui claimed that the bhang dealers are untouchable since they threaten residents after being arrested and set free on several occasions without being arraigned before a court.
She said residents who cooperate with security personnel are living in fears of being attacked. She noted that some villagers had been threatened with dire consequences if they continue interfering with the illicit business that has been thriving for a long time.
The villagers, especially elderly women, lamented that many youths have dropped out of school and turned into the illicit trade after being paid a commission by the dealers.