Crackdown has been launched on parties being hosted across Airbnb rentals in Nairobi.
The move follows reports that the parties are a growing trend of drug-fueled activities involving the youth and underage individuals.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has raised alarm over the misuse of private rental spaces for illicit activities, including drug abuse, excessive alcohol consumption, and, in some cases, fatal overdoses.
Further, the authority has indicated that intensified raids on clubs and entertainment venues have pushed drug traffickers and partygoers to more discreet locations.
“NACADA, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, has been conducting sustained crackdowns on illicit drug operations in entertainment venues, residential areas, and major urban centers.
“This enforcement pressure has forced individuals involved in the illegal drug trade to shift their activities to seemingly discreet locations such as Airbnbs where they attempt to evade scrutiny,” stated NACADA in a Monday, march 10, statement.
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Records of Cases of Airbnb Parties
According to NACADA, recent reports indicate that 23% of young adults aged 18 to 24 in urban areas have engaged in drug use at social gatherings, with short-term rental properties emerging as hotspots.
Consequently, a string of such cases has raised alarms about the urgent need for firmer monitoring and regulation of short-term rental accommodations.
“This situation calls for immediate action from all stakeholders, and we urge Airbnb hosts and property managers to exercise due diligence in screening guests and flagging any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities,” noted the authority.
Also Read: NACADA Issues Warning to Social Media Influencers
Consequences to Owners of the Establishments
In response, NACADA is intensifying surveillance and working with law enforcement to track illegal activities in private rentals.
At the same time, property owners have been encouraged to report suspicious activities.
Also, Airbnb hosts have been warned that their premises could be shut down if found to be enabling drug-related activities.
Further, NACADA has asked Kenyans to report drug-related activities anonymously through its 24-hour hotline 1192.
The authority has assured the public that all reports will be treated confidentially and will help authorities take swift action.
“Parents, guardians, and communities must also remain vigilant and actively engage young people in constructive activities to steer them away from the dangers of drug abuse,” it noted.
Airbnb Responds
Airbnb reached out to The Kenya Times saying that the platform remains committed to safety and security.
The company has emphasized that the term “Airbnb” is often used as a blanket reference for various types of short-term accommodations, some of which may not even be listed on its platform.
Further, it has reiterated that it is actively working to identify and address locations being misused for illegal activities.
Also, the company has implemented measures to ensure that hosts and guests adhere to strict community standards, including policies that prohibit parties and illegal conduct in rental spaces.
“Airbnb’s advice to hosts on safety and security in Kenya and Africa broadly is clear, keeping our community safe,
“Safety is paramount to Airbnb, and everyone who uses Airbnb must abide by our strict policies, Community Standards and Terms of Service. We may remove anyone who violates these strict policies,” stated Airbnb.
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