By Grace Gilo
In a stunning turn of events, sleuths from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have uncovered a secret narcotics lab in Mwabungo village, Ukunda, an area typically associated with its serene beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
Following days of discreet surveillance and intelligence gathering, a team from the Anti-Narcotics Unit and the Kenya Police executed a well-coordinated raid on a secluded one-acre compound.
During the operation, law enforcement officials apprehended two suspects: 37-year-old Gianardi Giulio, an Italian national and Moses Nanoka Egadwa, a local resident.
“Hidden behind tall walls and a heavily guarded gate, the location turned out to be more than it appeared. Inside, officers arrested two individuals: Gianardi Giulio, a 37-year-old Italian national, and Moses Nanoka Egadwa,” DCI revealed.
According to DCI, the team recovered lab equipment and chemicals suspected to be used in the manufacture of drugs, as well as packaging materials marked with the names of known narcotics.
Further searches revealed sections of the compound being used to cultivate what is believed to be cannabis, compounding the evidence of ongoing illicit activities within the site.
“The suspects are currently in custody, awaiting formal charges in court,” DCI added.
The National Police Service reiterated its commitment to dismantling drug networks and keeping Kenyan communities safe from the harmful effects of narcotics and the illegal drug trade.