By Muthoni Maina
In a decisive operation conducted yesterday, the Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU) Malindi, in collaboration with their counterparts from ANU Mombasa, intercepted a significant drug trafficking attempt along the Mariakani-Mavueni road.
Acting on a tip-off, the officers moved swiftly to apprehend two suspected traffickers and seized a staggering 429kg of bhang, estimated to be worth Ksh12 million on the streets.
The operation unfolded when ANU officers received intelligence suggesting that a Mercedes-Benz Actros KAY 269J/ZC was to be employed in transporting the illicit cargo to an undisclosed destination.
With precision and coordination, the officers located the vehicle and ambushed the suspects, a driver identified as 28-year-old Joseph Nzomo, and his accomplice, 27-year-old Auress Godfrey, at an open field where they were preparing to load seven sacks of the prohibited substance.
“The officers swiftly followed leads to the truck, ambushing the unsuspecting duo at an open field while flexing muscles in readiness to load seven sacks of the prohibited herb,” stated the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on X.
Following the apprehension, both suspects were promptly escorted to a police car along with the seized narcotics and taken to Mariakani Police Station for further processing. The truck used in the trafficking attempt was also impounded as evidence in the ongoing investigation.
This successful operation sends a clear message to traffickers and peddlers involved in the illicit drug trade. Law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and are actively pursuing those engaged in such criminal activities.
Authorities urge individuals to reconsider their involvement in illegal activities and instead explore lawful means of income generation to avoid the severe consequences of being caught.
The ANU continues to collaborate with various law enforcement agencies across the region to combat the scourge of drug trafficking and maintain the safety and security of communities.
Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities to aid in the fight against drug-related crimes.
As the investigation progresses, ANU remains committed to upholding the law and dismantling criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, ensuring that perpetrators face the full force of justice.