Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU) detectives have arrested a 42-year-old suspected drug trafficker in Nakuru, seizing 397 grams of heroin valued at Sh1.19 million during a swift, intelligence-led operation that police say disrupted an active drug supply run.
The suspect, identified as Ephantus Kariuki Mwangi, was intercepted while riding a motorcycle, registration number KMEC 785W, after detectives flagged luggage he was carrying as suspicious. A subsequent search revealed the heroin neatly concealed for transport, underscoring what investigators believe was a well-planned delivery.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), detectives also recovered two syringes and needles, ten rolls of bhang, and three packets of Supermatch cigarettes, items police say are commonly associated with drug distribution and use. The seizure effectively cut short what officers described as an ongoing supply operation.
“The arrest effectively cut short what detectives believe was an active drug supply run,” the DCI said in a statement, noting that the operation was driven by actionable intelligence and close coordination among officers on the ground.
Mwangi was immediately taken into police custody, where he is being held as detectives finalize investigations ahead of his arraignment in court.
Authorities did not disclose his intended destination or whether he is linked to a wider trafficking network, but said further inquiries are ongoing.
The DCI reaffirmed its hardline stance against drug trafficking, vowing to intensify operations targeting dealers and supply chains across the country.
“The DCI remains firmly committed to dismantling drug trafficking networks through relentless operations and multi-agency collaboration,” the statement read.
Police emphasized that there will be “zero tolerance for traffickers, regardless of status,” adding that sustained enforcement efforts are aimed at ensuring “a safer, drug-free Kenya for all.”
As part of its public engagement strategy, the DCI urged members of the public to share information that could help curb the drug trade.
Citizens can report suspicious activity anonymously through the toll-free hotline 0800 722 203 or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000 under the campaign hashtag #FichuaKwaDCI.
“Usiogope,” the DCI said, encouraging Kenyans not to fear coming forward, as authorities continue to rely on community cooperation to combat narcotics trafficking and related crime.
