Mombasa law enforcement officers have arrested three individuals suspected of drug trafficking after intercepting a consignment of six sacks of bhang in Kaloleni sub-county. Acting on intelligence provided by members of the public, detectives conducted a successful raid in Birya village, leading to the seizure of the illicit cargo.
According to a statement released by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Thursday evening, the operation was carried out by detectives from Kaloleni. The trio was caught red-handed at the home of one of the suspects, where the bhang was being stored. Authorities believe the consignment was destined for Bamburi before their operation was thwarted.
“The three now sit in custody, undergoing processing as they await their day in court,” DCI stated.
Drug Trafficking and the Law in Kenya
Drug trafficking remains a serious offense in Kenya, governed by the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, 1994. The severity of punishment depends on the type and quantity of drugs involved.
For individuals found in possession of cannabis intended solely for personal use, the law stipulates a maximum imprisonment term of five years or a fine not exceeding Sh100,000. However, if the quantity is below one gram, the individual faces a fine of at least five million shillings or a prison term of at least five years, or both.
For trafficking offenses, the penalties are harsher. A convicted trafficker could face a fine of Sh1 million or three times the market value of the seized drugs, whichever is higher. Additionally, cultivating narcotic plants such as cannabis can attract a fine of Sh250,000 or three times the market value of the plants, whichever is greater.
Rehabilitation for Minor Offenders
In some cases, courts may recommend rehabilitation programs for minor offenders found with bhang for personal use instead of jail time. This approach aims to address substance abuse issues rather than imposing severe punitive measures.
The latest arrest in Mombasa underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb drug trafficking in the coastal region. Authorities continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities to help combat the trade in illicit drugs.
