The Director of Public Prosecutions on Monday secured a major anti-narcotics conviction in Isiolo, where a man was fined Sh2,232,000 or face six years in prison for cultivating 24.8 kilograms of cannabis valued at Sh744,000.
The case, heard at the Isiolo Law Courts, highlights ongoing intelligence-led efforts to combat drug trafficking and protect communities.
John Mburugu was found guilty under Section 6(a) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act.
The prosecution successfully demonstrated that Mburugu had unlawfully cultivated cannabis in the Kulamawe area of Isiolo County.
The court heard that 24.8 kilograms of cannabis plants, valued at approximately Sh744,000, were recovered during an intelligence-led operation.
According to the DPP, the conviction was secured after the case was proved “beyond reasonable doubt.”
Led by State Counsel Justice Mugambi, the prosecution team presented what it described as “cogent and consistent evidence” linking the accused to the offence. The court subsequently returned a guilty verdict and imposed the statutory penalty.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions said the outcome reaffirms its commitment to tackling drug-related crimes across the country.
“The outcome reaffirms the DPP’s resolve to combat narcotics-related offences and protect communities from the harmful effects of illicit drugs,” the statement read.
Authorities have increasingly relied on intelligence-led operations to identify and disrupt drug cultivation and trafficking networks in various regions.
The Isiolo case is among several recent prosecutions aimed at dismantling the supply of narcotics within local communities.
The court proceedings followed investigations that led to the recovery of the cannabis plants in the Kulamawe area.
Evidence presented during the trial convinced the court that the accused was responsible for the illegal cultivation.
In its statement, the DPP emphasized that it continues to pursue such cases with diligence and professionalism.
“By pursuing such cases with diligence and professionalism, the DPP continues to demonstrate firm commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding public safety,” the office said.
The conviction also reflects broader national efforts to curb the production and distribution of narcotic substances, which authorities say pose significant risks to public health, youth welfare, and community stability.
Under Kenyan law, cultivation of cannabis is a criminal offence, and offenders are subject to heavy fines or custodial sentences.
