Detectives from the Anti-Narcotics Unit have arrested a 27-year-old woman, Quinter Achieng Matengo, in possession of two kilograms of bhang. The arrest underscores the vigilance of security officials and the collaborative efforts between the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) to combat drug trafficking in Kenya.
Body: The operation took place on a routine morning at JKIA when KAA staff, working alongside anti-narcotics detectives, flagged suspicious items in Matengo’s luggage during a screening process. “Working closely with KAA staff, who flagged suspicious items during luggage screening, detectives intercepted the suspected drug trafficker bound for Doha, Qatar,” stated the DCI in a statement released shortly after the arrest. The diligent routine checks by the KAA team raised enough concerns to prompt further investigation, leading to the discovery of the drugs concealed within packets of maize flour.
Matengo, who was en route to Doha, Qatar, with the drugs, appeared nervous during the screening, prompting heightened suspicion from the authorities. “Her mannerisms and behavior did not match the usual patterns of travelers, raising concerns among our officers,” noted a source within the DCI. This observation, coupled with the suspicious nature of the luggage, led to a more thorough search, ultimately resulting in the discovery of the two kilograms of bhang hidden among the food packets.
The discovery was made possible by the use of specialized detection equipment and keen eye from the KAA staff and the Anti-Narcotics Unit. According to the DCI, “The drugs were well concealed, but with our advanced screening technology and trained staff, we were able to detect the narcotics.” The drugs, once discovered, were carefully weighed and securely stored as evidence. Matengo was then taken into custody by the anti-narcotics team for further interrogation and processing.
Matengo’s Interrogation and Legal Proceedings: During the interrogation, Quinter Achieng Matengo admitted to knowing that she was transporting the bhang, but claimed that she was unaware of the quantity or the destination’s illegal status. According to sources familiar with the investigation, Matengo mentioned that she was recruited by an acquaintance who promised her a substantial sum of money for carrying the drugs. “She mentioned that she was approached by a friend who promised her a fee for transporting the drugs abroad,” said a police officer involved in the case. This revelation suggests that Matengo may have been a pawn in a larger drug trafficking network operating both locally and internationally.
The DCI has emphasized the need for continued vigilance and cooperation with other countries to combat the illegal drug trade effectively. “This operation highlights the importance of international collaboration in fighting drug trafficking,” said DCI spokesperson George Kinoti. “We are working closely with our counterparts in Qatar to understand the full extent of this operation and to disrupt any further attempts to smuggle drugs out of Kenya.”
Following her arrest, Matengo was handed over to the Anti-Narcotics Unit for processing. The police have confirmed that she will be arraigned in court soon, where she will face charges related to drug trafficking and possession. “The drugs will be presented in court as evidence, and the suspect will be tried according to the law,” the police stated.
Conclusion: The arrest of Quinter Achieng Matengo serves as a warning to others involved in the drug trade. It underscores the growing effectiveness of airport security measures and the collaboration between various government agencies to intercept and dismantle drug trafficking networks. As Kenya continues to strengthen its borders and security measures, it is hoped that such busts will become more common, deterring drug traffickers and protecting the country from the destructive impacts of narcotics.
This incident also highlights the importance of community awareness and cooperation in identifying suspicious activities. The DCI and KAA have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help prevent the spread of illegal drugs through the country’s airports.
Call to Action: The DCI has urged the public to report any suspicious activities at airports and along borders to help in the fight against drug trafficking. “The cooperation of the public is crucial in preventing such incidents and ensuring the safety of our nation,” stated Kinoti. As authorities continue to ramp up efforts to curb drug trafficking, they are appealing for support from the community to identify and intercept these illegal networks.
This arrest at JKIA is just one example of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in Kenya to combat the drug trade. With the support of advanced technology and international partnerships, the country is making strides in curbing the flow of narcotics through its borders, safeguarding the future of its citizens and communities.
