Police on Monday intercepted 181 kilograms of suspected cannabis along the Webuye–Kitale highway after a driver fled during a high-speed chase.
Officers recovered 46 bales of the narcotic from an abandoned vehicle at Malaha Junction. The National Police Service said investigations are ongoing as authorities intensify efforts to curb drug trafficking in the region.
According to the National Police Service, the driver failed to comply with a lawful order to stop when officers attempted to intercept the vehicle.
Instead, the driver sped away, triggering a high-speed pursuit along the busy highway.
The chase ended at Malaha Junction after the vehicle reportedly developed mechanical problems.
Police say the driver abandoned the car and fled the scene on foot, evading immediate arrest.
Officers later conducted a thorough search of the vehicle and discovered multiple bales of what is believed to be cannabis, commonly known in Kenya as bhang.
Authorities said the drugs were carefully packaged and hidden inside the vehicle.
In total, 46 bales of the suspected narcotic were recovered, weighing a combined 181 kilograms.
The vehicle used to transport the drugs has since been towed and detained at Webuye Police Station as investigations continue.
Police said forensic analysis will be carried out to confirm the nature of the seized substances.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts by the National Police Service to disrupt networks involved in the trafficking of illegal drugs across the country.
Drug trafficking remains a significant challenge in several parts of Kenya, particularly along major transport routes where traffickers often move narcotics between counties and across borders.
Authorities say highways connecting different regions are frequently targeted by traffickers due to their accessibility and heavy transport traffic.
Police believe the intercepted consignment may have been destined for distribution in other parts of the country.
However, investigators have not yet revealed where the drugs originated or their intended destination.
Officers are also working to identify the suspect who fled the scene and determine whether other individuals may have been involved in the operation.
The National Police Service said the successful interception highlights the vigilance of officers working to combat illegal drug trafficking.
Law enforcement agencies have in recent years intensified operations targeting the production, transportation and sale of narcotics, including cannabis and other illegal substances.
Such operations often involve surveillance, intelligence gathering and coordinated roadblocks along key highways.
