Kenya's Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) announced the arrest of five suspects and the seizure of over 582 kilograms of suspected cannabis sativa in a multi-county operation. The coordinated raids took place in Kisumu, Kisii, and Nairobi, involving personnel from various units, including the Narcotics and Non-Illegal Drugs Bureau and the Rapid Deployment Unit. The operation resulted in the recovery of significant quantities of suspected cannabis and other contraband.
In Kisumu County, a joint team of detectives intercepted a gold Toyota Axio at Kisumu Boys Roundabout. After the driver refused to stop, officers fired a round at the front-left tyre, deflating it, and arrested 21-year-old Frida Night Odour as she tried to flee. A search of the vehicle uncovered dry plant material suspected to be cannabis packed in seven Manila sacks and additional loose quantities, totaling 282.55 kg.
The seized cannabis in Kisumu County has an estimated market value of Sh8,656,500. Additionally, 40 dozen packets of uncustomed Supermatch cigarettes valued at Sh40,000 were also recovered from the vehicle. The suspect, Frida Night Odour, was taken into custody along with other seized exhibits.
In Kisii County, detectives raided a house at Keumbu Trading Centre based on a public tip, recovering seven sacks of suspected cannabis weighing about 300 kg. The raid resulted in the arrest of 32-year-old Elijah Amisi Mogire. This significant seizure highlights the continued efforts of the DCI to combat narcotics trafficking in the region.
A separate operation in Nairobi's Buruburu Sub-County led to the arrest of three suspects: Noah James Kariuli, Calvin Malibo, and Brian Ndolo. The operation, led by the Officer Commanding Station at Jogoo Road, resulted in the recovery of 936 brown rolls and 66 red rolls of suspected cannabis concealed in a black polythene bag.
The DCI confirmed that all seized exhibits have been secured, and the scenes documented. The five suspects remain in custody pending arraignment, with criminal charges to be determined by the courts. The agency's efforts aim to dismantle narcotics trafficking networks and disrupt the supply chain.
The DCI reiterated its commitment to combating narcotics trafficking and urged the public to provide anonymous information to support ongoing investigations. The multi-county operation demonstrates the agency's continued efforts to address the issue of narcotics in Kenya and ensure public safety.
Key points
- Five suspects were arrested in a multi-county operation across Kisumu, Kisii, and Nairobi.
- Over 582 kg of suspected cannabis was seized, with an estimated market value of Sh8,656,500 in Kisumu County alone.
- The DCI seized additional contraband, including 1,002 rolls of suspected bhang and packets of uncustomed cigarettes.
