DCI busts Sh3.3mn cannabis haul in Kenya, arrests two

• Kenya's authorities have seized cannabis worth an estimated Sh3.3 million in a dramatic highway chase.
• Two suspected drug traffickers, Emmanuel Wesonga and Stephen Daria, are in police custody pending processing and arraignment.
• The latest seizure brings the total value of confiscated cannabis to over Sh16.7 million in just a few days.
• President William Ruto's anti-drug strategy includes expanding the DCI's Anti-Narcotics Unit and enhancing intelligence-led investigations.

According to President William Ruto's anti-drug strategy, the expansion of the DCI's Anti-Narcotics Unit and enhanced intelligence-led investigations are key components of the crackdown.

Kenya's authorities have been intensifying their efforts to combat narcotics trafficking, with a recent operation resulting in the seizure of cannabis worth an estimated Sh3.3 million. The latest haul brings the total value of confiscated cannabis to over Sh16.7 million in just a few days, highlighting the scope of the problem and the need for sustained action. According to President William Ruto's anti-drug strategy, the expansion of the DCI's Anti-Narcotics Unit and enhanced intelligence-led investigations are key components of the crackdown. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has emphasized the government's commitment to eliminating the problem of drugs in the country, with a focus on strengthening intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation.

A dramatic chase along the Eldoret-Nakuru Highway led to the arrest of two suspected drug traffickers, Emmanuel Wesonga and Stephen Daria. Detectives from the DCI Anti-Narcotics Unit had flagged down a blue Nissan Note at the KFA Roundabout, but instead of stopping, the driver allegedly accelerated and sped off towards the Eveready area. Despite suffering a punctured front tyre, the vehicle continued on its rim before the occupants abandoned it and fled. The detectives pursued and arrested the pair, recovering five sacks containing 110 kilograms of cannabis sativa valued at about Sh3.3 million.

Emmanuel Wesonga and Stephen Daria remain in police custody pending processing and arraignment. The recovered cannabis has been secured as evidence, with the suspects facing charges related to narcotics trafficking. The latest seizure is part of a broader effort to disrupt drug trafficking networks and their financial assets, with authorities working to enhance intelligence-led investigations and inter-agency cooperation.

Lawyers should watch for the intensified nationwide crackdown on narcotics trafficking and potential updates to anti-drug strategies announced by President William Ruto, which may impact their clients' operations or compliance obligations.

Source: Original reporting via Daily Nation