Police in Kwale County have seized suspected narcotics worth approximately KSh3.6 billion following a major multi-agency operation targeting an alleged international drug trafficking network.
The operation, conducted in Msambweni Sub-County, resulted in the recovery of 454 kilogrammes of suspected methamphetamine and the arrest of three foreign nationals, comprising two Tanzanian nationals and one Ugandan woman.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reported that the operation involved intelligence sharing and cooperation between Kenyan and Tanzanian security agencies as authorities intensified efforts to dismantle cross-border drug trafficking networks.
Investigations reportedly began on November 5, 2026, following the arrest of a 45-year-old suspect by Tanzanian authorities in connection with a separate consignment of suspected narcotics.
The suspect was subsequently handed over to Kenyan authorities at the Lunga Lunga–Horohoro border crossing.
Information obtained during investigations helped security officers trace suspected accomplices in Kwale County.
The investigative team first visited Shirazi Village in Kingwede Shirazi Location before proceeding to Ganja La Simba Village in Kinondo Location, Msambweni Sub-County.
It was at the second location that officers reportedly discovered 454 kilogrammes of suspected narcotics valued at approximately KSh3.6 billion.
The operation led to the arrest of three individuals, including two Tanzanian nationals and a Ugandan woman.
Police also recovered two motor vehicles and a motorcycle believed to be connected to the suspected drug trafficking activities.
The suspects were taken into custody as detectives continued investigating the alleged trafficking network and the possible involvement of other individuals.
Authorities are also working to establish the origin of the seized drugs and their intended destination.
The major narcotics seizure highlights the growing importance of cooperation between East African countries in combating international drug trafficking.
The involvement of Tanzanian authorities in the investigations helped Kenyan security agencies trace the suspected network and make arrests.
The Coast region, particularly areas bordering Tanzania, remains an important focus for security operations targeting suspected cross-border criminal activities.
Investigators are expected to pursue additional leads to establish whether the suspects were operating independently or as part of a wider international trafficking syndicate.
The KSh3.6 billion narcotics seizure represents a major development in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to fight drug trafficking and organised crime.
Security agencies continue to conduct intelligence-led operations aimed at identifying trafficking networks, recovering illegal substances and bringing those responsible before the courts.
The latest operation also sends a warning to suspected drug traffickers that authorities are strengthening regional cooperation to combat the illegal drug trade.
As investigations continue, Kenyans await further details regarding the suspects, the origin of the recovered narcotics and possible additional arrests.
