The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) recently detained a Polish national at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for possessing heroin valued at Ksh3.2 million. This individual, a 37-year-old, was arrested at JKIA’s Terminal 1C just before his flight to Hungary via an Egyptian airline.
The DCI’s statement indicates that the drugs, believed to be heroin, were concealed in the suspect’s baggage. The arrestee is now in police custody, awaiting legal procedures and a court appearance. Margaret Karanja, the head of the Anti-Narcotics Directorate, emphasized the agency’s commitment to pursuing those involved in drug trafficking. She stated unequivocally that any participant in the narcotics trade would face the full force of the law, irrespective of their specific role.
This recent arrest aligns with Kenya’s intensified efforts to combat the rising trend of drug trafficking, especially along its coastline. A UNODC report underscores the increasing drug trafficking activities in the region and highlights the need for greater collaboration between Kenyan agencies. In line with these efforts, 20 officers from the DCI and the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS) underwent specialized training by the UNODC to bolster their capacity in curbing drug trafficking by land and sea.
The report further stresses the importance of a united front between DCI and KCGS to effect meaningful changes in drug seizures in Kenya. Additionally, as part of the Global Maritime Crime Program, the UNODC, backed by the US, plans to extend its training program to officers in Tanzania and Mozambique, focusing on drug investigation and strategic planning.