On Thursday, December 12, detectives from the Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU) successfully intercepted a 27-year-old woman at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) who was attempting to smuggle two kilograms of Cannabis Sativa into Doha, Qatar.
The arrest occurred after a careful screening of her luggage, conducted in collaboration with officials from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA). The drug was cleverly concealed in packets of maize flour, a discovery that prompted further interrogation at the ANU offices. Following a thorough search, the officers confirmed the presence of the illicit substance.
The Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has noted the intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking, particularly during the holiday season when such activities typically increase. This incident is part of a sustained initiative to disrupt drug trafficking operations at Kenya’s primary airport. Earlier in March, another case emerged when a woman was caught attempting to smuggle cocaine to Madagascar.
Suspicious items detected during a body scan led to a search that unveiled packets of cocaine strapped to her waist. This individual subsequently identified members of her trafficking network, one of whom was a Ugandan national residing in Kenya, who had introduced her to the illegal trade.
The DCI’s investigation into that case culminated in the arrest of three additional suspects, all of whom admitted involvement in the smuggling operation. A presumptive test confirmed the presence of approximately 396 grams of cocaine during the second seizure.
The efforts of the DCI and ANU are pivotal in maintaining airport security and thwarting the distribution of illegal substances on both local and international fronts. With the festive season approaching, the resolve of these agencies remains steadfast as they strive to safeguard the country from the challenges posed by drug trafficking.
