DCI seizes 272kg of suspected cannabis worth Sh8.16m on Eldoret–Nakuru road

News · David Abonyo · March 15, 2026
DCI seizes 272kg of suspected cannabis worth Sh8.16m on Eldoret–Nakuru road
Arrested suspect and seized cannabis. PHOTO/DCI
In Summary

According to the statement by the Director of Criminal Investigations on Sunday, officers recovered 272 kilograms of suspected cannabis, valued at approximately Sh8.16 million, after the suspect abandoned his vehicle near Kaptembwa Police Station.

Detectives from the Anti-Narcotics Unit in the Rift Valley Region have arrested 35-year-old David Muraya following a dramatic high-speed chase along the Eldoret–Nakuru Highway.

According to the statement by the Director of Criminal Investigations on Sunday, officers recovered 272 kilograms of suspected cannabis, valued at approximately Sh8.16 million, after the suspect abandoned his vehicle near Kaptembwa Police Station.

The suspect remains in police custody ahead of his court arraignment scheduled for March 16, 2026.

DCI said the incident occurred on March 14, 2026, when ANU officers on routine patrol flagged down a blue Toyota Voxy, registration number KCS 496B, after it aroused suspicion. The driver, however, defied orders to stop and sped off, prompting a pursuit that stretched toward the Kaptembwa area.

During the chase, detectives deflated the vehicle’s right front tyre in an attempt to bring it to a stop. Despite the damage, Muraya continued driving towards the 140 Area before eventually abandoning the vehicle in a vacant plot near Kaptembwa Police Station and attempting to flee on foot. The suspect was swiftly cornered and arrested by pursuing officers.

Officers searched the vehicle and recovered thirteen sacks containing dry green plant material suspected to be cannabis sativa, totaling approximately 272 kilograms. The haul is estimated to be worth about Sh8,160,000.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reiterated its commitment to intensifying operations against narcotics trafficking, saying it will continue to dismantle networks involved in the illicit drug trade.

“We remain steadfast in our efforts to combat the distribution and trafficking of illegal drugs in the country,” a statement from DCI noted.

The public is urged to report any drug-related activity anonymously through DCI’s toll-free numbers: 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.

The arrest marks another step in ongoing law enforcement efforts to curb narcotics trafficking and ensure the safety and security of communities in the Rift Valley and across Kenya.

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