Kilifi County’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) detectives intercepted a vehicle transporting a substantial quantity of bhang, valued at approximately Ksh.4.7 million. The operation, which took place in the Mtondia area along the Kilifi-Malindi Road, underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat drug trafficking in the region.
The operation unfolded when the DCI received intelligence reports indicating suspicious activity related to drug trafficking in Kilifi County. Acting on this critical information, detectives set up a roadblock and stopped a Subaru Exiga with registration number 259K. Upon inspection, they discovered seven sacks of bhang concealed inside the vehicle. The total weight of the seized narcotics was 155 kilograms, with an estimated street value of Ksh.4,650,000.
According to the DCI, the discovery was a result of diligent and coordinated efforts by local law enforcement agencies. “The Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU) officers from Malindi were called in to weigh the substance and take over the case,” stated a DCI representative on X. The swift action by the officers ensured that the significant haul of drugs was secured and removed from circulation.
Despite the successful seizure, the operation was not without challenges. The occupants of the Subaru Exiga, upon realizing the police presence, made a hasty attempt to evade capture. When signaled to stop, the individuals fled from the vehicle and disappeared into a nearby thicket. The DCI has since launched a manhunt to locate and apprehend the suspects involved in this drug trafficking operation.
In addition to the narcotics, the vehicle used for transportation has been impounded and taken to Malindi Police Station for documentation. The police are now focusing on gathering more information to identify and arrest the suspects who managed to escape. This case highlights the persistent issue of drug trafficking in Kenya and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address it.
The seizure of such a large quantity of bhang is a notable achievement for the DCI and other involved agencies. It not only removes a significant amount of illegal drugs from the streets but also sends a strong message to drug traffickers about the vigilance and effectiveness of the police in tackling drug-related crimes.
Kilifi County has seen a rise in drug-related incidents in recent years, prompting increased scrutiny and enforcement efforts by local and national law enforcement agencies. The successful interception of this shipment is a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation in combating drug trafficking.
The DCI’s continued commitment to addressing drug-related crimes is crucial in maintaining public safety and ensuring that illegal substances do not reach the community. The investigation into this case remains ongoing, with authorities determined to bring those responsible to justice. As the manhunt continues, the public is urged to provide any information that may assist in locating the fugitives involved in this operation.
The seizure of Ksh.4.7 million worth of bhang in Kilifi is a significant victory for law enforcement and a reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Kenya.
