Police Seize Sh3.6 Billion Meth in Kwale Drug Bust

The National Anti-Narcotics Bureau (NANB) Coast Region, in collaboration with Tanzanian security agencies, conducted an intelligence-led, multi-agency operation in Kwale County, resulting in the seizure of 454 kilogrammes of suspected methamphetamine worth an estimated Sh3.6 billion. This significant bust has dealt a major blow to an alleged international drug trafficking network. The operation was a coordinated effort to dismantle criminal cartels exploiting Kenya's porous border routes.

Three foreign nationals, comprising two Tanzanian men and a Ugandan woman, were arrested during the operation. The arrests were a follow-up to the November 5, 2026, arrest of a 45-year-old Tanzanian national by authorities in Tanzania over suspected involvement in drug trafficking. The suspect was subsequently handed over to Kenyan officers at the Lunga Lunga–Horohoro border crossing, providing investigators with a critical lead in tracking the suspected trafficking network.

Intelligence linking the suspects to a separate seizure of 259 kilogrammes of suspected methamphetamine and cocaine in Tanzania helped security agencies widen their investigations. This led to the recovery of the 454 kilogrammes in Kwale County. The seizures highlight the growing challenge of cross-border narcotics trade and the need for enhanced cooperation between security agencies.

The government has intensified its campaign against narcotics, illicit alcohol, and organized criminal networks. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has warned that illicit alcohol and drugs rank among the country's three greatest threats, describing the menace as a serious threat to Kenya's future. Kindiki announced that the government had stepped up its campaign against criminal cartels, promising "ruthless enforcement through covert intelligence operations" under a centralised multi-agency command.

The government has signalled its intention to pursue the entire criminal chain, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and those financing illegal operations. Kindiki has warned against political interference, insisting that enforcement agencies must be allowed to discharge their responsibilities. The government's efforts aim to disrupt the trade and dismantle criminal cartels.

Kenya's Coast is a gateway to international connections, and porous border routes present enforcement challenges. The arrests and seizures demonstrate the government's renewed determination to address the issue. The Standard Group Plc, a leading multi-media house in Kenya, has been at the forefront of reporting on national and international issues.

The seizures and arrests are part of a broader effort to combat narcotics and organized crime in Kenya. The government has increasingly embraced intelligence gathering, coordinated raids, tighter regulation, and cooperation between security and enforcement agencies to disrupt the trade. The efforts aim to protect Kenya's future and prevent the menace of illicit substances from wiping out the country's gains.

Key points

• The seizure of 454kg of suspected methamphetamine worth Sh3.6 billion in Kwale County has dealt a major blow to an alleged international drug trafficking network.