DCI detectives have arrested one suspect and seized containers of suspected methanol during an early Wednesday morning operation along the Nairobi–Thika Highway.
The intelligence-led operation targeted a vehicle intercepted near Spur Mall in Gwa Kairu, Kiambu County.
Authorities said the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue and forensic analysis of the seized substances is conducted.
According to investigators, the operation was carried out at about 0400 hours when officers intercepted a grey Toyota Fortuner along the busy highway.
“The operation, conducted at about 0400 hours in the Gwa Kairu area near Spur Mall, led to the interception of a grey Toyota Fortuner whose driver, identified as Thomas Ochieng Wamura was arrested at the scene,” the statement said.
Authorities said a search of the vehicle led to the discovery of several containers suspected to contain methanol, which had been concealed inside the vehicle.
“A search of the vehicle uncovered multiple containers suspected to contain methanol, concealed within the vehicle. Two mobile phones were also seized as exhibits,” the statement said.
Methanol is a highly toxic industrial chemical that is sometimes used in the production of illicit alcohol and other illegal substances, and authorities have previously warned about the dangers associated with its illegal distribution and use.
The suspect was arrested at the scene and taken into police custody as investigations continue.
“The suspect is in custody at Muthaiga Police Station pending completion of investigations and arraignment,” the statement said.
Authorities also confirmed that the vehicle and the recovered substances have been secured as investigations continue, with forensic analysis expected to determine the exact contents of the seized containers.
“The vehicle and recovered substances have been secured at DCI Headquarters for forensic analysis,” the statement added.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations said the arrest is part of ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and illegal chemical distribution networks across the country.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations reiterates its commitment to disrupting illicit drug trafficking networks through sustained intelligence-led enforcement operations,” the statement said.
Kenyan authorities have in recent years intensified operations targeting illegal alcohol production and drug trafficking networks, often involving the transportation of chemicals used in the manufacture of illicit brews and narcotics.
Investigators believe intelligence-led operations have played a key role in identifying suspects and intercepting illegal consignments before they reach distribution networks.
The DCI has also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities anonymously through its reporting channels as part of efforts to combat illegal drug and chemical trafficking.
The arrest along the Nairobi–Thika Highway highlights the continued focus by authorities on major transport routes often used to move illegal substances into and out of the capital.
Investigations into the seized substances, the suspect and possible links to wider trafficking networks are ongoing.
