Kenyan police have seized 454kg of methamphetamine worth an estimated $27m in an operation targeting international drug trafficking networks. The seizure was made at the Kenyan coast following an intelligence-led operation involving Kenyan anti-narcotics officers and their Tanzanian counterparts. The operation resulted in the arrest of three suspects, two Tanzanians and a Ugandan.
The investigations began after a key suspect was arrested in Tanzania last week and handed over to Kenyan authorities at the border. The suspect was allegedly linked to a separate seizure of 250 kg of suspected methamphetamine and cocaine in Tanzania. This led officers to a location in Msambweni on the Kenyan coast, where the drug haul was discovered.
Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a harmful illegal synthetic drug that is highly addictive and can lead to severe psychosis, heart attack or stroke. The police made further arrests at the site and seized two motor vehicles and a motorcycle. The four suspects are currently in custody and due to be arraigned in court.
The recovered narcotics and the seized items are being kept as exhibits. The police say the operation remains ongoing and urged members of the public to share information that will help tackle drug trafficking. This operation is part of a broader effort to combat the menace of illicit alcohol and drug abuse.
Last month, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki declared illicit alcohol and drug abuse among top threats to Kenya's future. He warned that the government would introduce tougher laws and intensify nationwide operations to deal with the menace. This comes as the Institute for Security Studies warns of a shift in East Africa's role in international drug trafficking.
The think-tank says the region's coastline is increasingly becoming not just a transit route for drugs destined for other markets but also an entry point for manufactured drugs intended for local consumption. In a separate operation last month, authorities destroyed more than a tonne of methamphetamine from a consignment intercepted last year by the Kenyan navy about 630km off the Mombasa coast.
The Kenyan authorities' efforts to combat drug trafficking are ongoing, with the police urging the public to cooperate. The Institute for Security Studies' warning highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation to tackle the issue. The Kenyan government's efforts to introduce tougher laws and intensify operations are part of a broader regional effort to address the problem.
Key points
- The operation resulted in the seizure of 454kg of methamphetamine worth $27m and the arrest of four suspects.
- The investigations began after a key suspect was arrested in Tanzania and handed over to Kenyan authorities.
- The Kenyan government has declared illicit alcohol and drug abuse a top threat to the country's future.
