On Saturday, September 26, 2026, a Kenyan woman, Jane Waithera Wateri, was arrested at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) while attempting to leave the country for Bangladesh with cocaine worth approximately KSh 13.53 million. The suspect was intercepted by detectives from the Kenya Airports Criminal Investigations (KACI) following a stop order issued by detectives from the National Anti-Narcotics Investigations Bureau (NANIB) over trafficking in narcotic drugs.
According to reports, Wateri was preparing to board a flight to Bangladesh when detectives brought her journey to an abrupt halt. A search conducted upon her interception led to the recovery of three small bags containing suspected narcotic drugs. The suspect, who has been on the law-enforcement watch list since last year, is currently being held at JKIA Police Station as detectives continue with investigations.
A preliminary field test returned positive for cocaine, with the consignment weighing approximately 3,383 grams and having an estimated street value of KSh13,530,720. The arrest was a significant blow to the narcotics trafficking syndicate, with authorities commending the efforts of the detectives involved in the operation.
The National Anti-Narcotics Investigations Bureau (NANIB) has been working closely with the Kenya Airports Criminal Investigations (KACI) to curb the trafficking of narcotic drugs through Kenyan airports. The two agencies have been sharing intelligence and coordinating efforts to identify and apprehend suspects involved in narcotics trafficking.
Wateri's arrest is a significant achievement for the Kenyan authorities in their fight against narcotics trafficking. The suspect's attempt to smuggle cocaine to Bangladesh highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies in the region.
The Kenyan government has been working to strengthen its laws and regulations to prevent narcotics trafficking and money laundering. The country has also been working with international partners to share intelligence and best practices in combating organized crime.
The case is ongoing, with detectives expected to present their findings to the court. If convicted, Wateri could face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The arrest serves as a warning to those involved in narcotics trafficking that Kenyan authorities are committed to curbing the menace.
Key points
- The suspect, Jane Waithera Wateri, was found with 3,383 grams of cocaine worth Ksh 13.53 million.
- The arrest was made possible through a stop order issued by detectives from the National Anti-Narcotics Investigations Bureau (NANIB).
- Wateri was attempting to smuggle the cocaine to Bangladesh.
