Nakuru detectives have dealt a major blow to drug traffickers, seizing heroin valued at Sh1.19 million in a rapid intelligence-led operation, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
The operation, led by the Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU), targeted suspicious movements in Nakuru town, aiming to disrupt active drug supply chains across the region.
A 42-year-old suspect, identified as Ephantus Kariuki Mwangi, was intercepted while riding a motorcycle with registration number KMEC 785W.
Police noted that Kariuki’s luggage aroused suspicion due to its unusual weight and shape, prompting detectives to conduct a thorough search on the spot.
Inside the luggage, officers found 397 grams of heroin, carefully concealed, along with two syringes and needles, raising concerns about potential local distribution.
Investigators also recovered ten rolls of bhang and three packets of Supermatch cigarettes, commonly associated with substance abuse, indicating a broader drug trafficking operation.
“The arrest successfully disrupted an active drug supply run,” an ANU officer told journalists, noting that the intelligence was precise and timely.
Kariuki is now under police custody as detectives complete investigations ahead of his formal arraignment in court.
Authorities warned that any individuals involved in drug trafficking, regardless of their social or economic status, will face swift action.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) emphasized its ongoing commitment to dismantle drug networks through strategic operations and multi-agency collaboration.
DCI officials reiterated that zero tolerance remains the cornerstone of Kenya’s fight against illicit drugs, with persistent operations planned nationwide.
Residents have lauded the ANU for their vigilance, noting that street-level arrests like these help curb substance abuse and protect communities.
Experts say such seizures not only prevent local distribution but also send a strong signal to organized syndicates operating across counties.
Police urged citizens to report suspicious activities and cooperate with authorities, reinforcing that community involvement is key in combating drug-related crimes.
This seizure follows a series of operations in major towns, highlighting the growing efforts to tackle heroin and other narcotics in the country.
Officials pointed out that heroin remains a high-risk substance, capable of devastating individuals and communities if left unchecked.
“The operation reflects our intelligence capabilities and determination to secure a drug-free Kenya,” said a senior DCI officer, highlighting ongoing surveillance measures.
As investigations continue, authorities are exploring the suspect’s links to larger trafficking networks to ensure comprehensive action against organized crime.
Law enforcement agencies across Nakuru and neighboring counties are intensifying patrols to prevent further movement of illegal drugs.
The DCI also reassured the public that arrests will be coupled with educational campaigns to warn youth about the dangers of narcotics.
Kariuki’s arraignment is expected soon, and the court proceedings will shed light on the scale of his alleged drug operations.
Authorities reiterated that every seized batch, like this one, represents a victory in the nationwide fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
Kenya continues to strengthen its legal and operational frameworks, ensuring that traffickers face the full weight of the law.
This latest bust in Nakuru signals that intelligence-led policing remains a key tool in protecting communities from the scourge of illegal drugs.
