A Heroic Reward or a Misplaced Priority? Behind the Scenes of Lamu’s War on Drugs
By Collins Muna, Lamu County
In a move aimed at bolstering the fight against narcotics, the County Government of Lamu recently issued a public cash reward to two police officers involved in a high-profile anti-narcotics operation. During the event held at the Mokowe County Headquarters, Governor Issa Timamy awarded each of the two officers Ksh 50,000, hailing their efforts in apprehending major drug peddlers on Lamu Island.
According to the official statement from the County Government: ‘The county government will continue supporting security agencies and individuals committed to eliminating drugs… the reward system is meant to motivate officers in the ongoing crackdown.’ Deputy Governor Mbarak Bahjaj further echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to safeguarding the youth from the destructive impact of substance abuse.
However, while the government presents this as a victory, the mood on the ground tells a vastly different story. On the official County Government of Lamu Facebook page, the reaction from the community has been swift and deeply skeptical.
Many residents are questioning the wisdom of rewarding police officers for simply performing their mandated duties. One commenter, Binti Mikdad, bluntly told officials, ‘Nyinyi viongozi huwa muna preach water while drinking wine shame on you.’ Another user, Lazarus Mugo, expressed frustration, suggesting that the focus should be on the effectiveness of police work rather than monetary incentives.
The discontent runs deeper than just the cash reward. Beyond the anti-drug narrative, citizens are raising alarms about a perceived breakdown in local security. Sir-Me Mlamu pointed to a more sinister reality, commenting, ‘That’s just a tip of the iceberg… Ghost projects are allocated millions without accountability.’
The community is particularly troubled by the rise of what many describe as personal conflicts manifesting as violent incidents, including unsolved killings. There is a prevailing feeling that the administration is focusing on performative gestures while the fundamental pillars of safety and justice remain fragile. For many in Lamu, this reward is not a badge of honor, but a distraction from the urgent, unresolved crises threatening their daily lives.
As the county intensifies its war on drugs, it faces an equally intense war for the trust of its people—a battle that cannot be won with cash, but only through transparency, accountability, and real protection for every citizen.
