MERU, Kenya — Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested two suspected drug traffickers and seized narcotics valued at approximately Sh630,000 following a raid on a rental house in Meru Municipality.
In a statement issued, the DCI said the operation was conducted after officers received a tip-off on suspected narcotics trafficking activities in Mwiteria sub-location.
Acting on the intelligence, the officers raided the premises and recovered 22 kilograms of Cannabis sativa alongside 440 rolls of bhang.
The suspects were identified as Daniel Mutuma, 23, and Duncan Murithi, 21, who were arrested at the scene.
“Upon entering the premises, officers recovered 22 kilograms of bhang and 440 rolls, all valued at approximately Sh630,000 in the streets,” the DCI said.
Investigators also recovered rolling papers, a digital weighing scale, 38 black courier bags, and a National Youth Service (NYS) smoke jacket, items police believe were being used to package and distribute the narcotics.
The two suspects were escorted to Meru Police Station together with the recovered exhibits, where they are being processed pending arraignment in court.
The arrests form part of a sustained nationwide crackdown on narcotics trafficking, which has seen multiple seizures and arrests in recent weeks as law enforcement agencies move to dismantle drug distribution networks.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has intensified its crackdown on narcotics trafficking, with sustained operations across the country aimed at dismantling drug networks, seizing illicit substances, and bringing all those involved to justice,” the agency said.
Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, possession, trafficking and distribution of cannabis attract stiff penalties, including lengthy prison terms and heavy fines, depending on the quantity and circumstances of the offence.
The DCI has repeatedly warned that traffickers will face the full force of the law, regardless of age or status, as the government intensifies efforts to curb drug abuse and its associated social and security consequences.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has previously warned that the availability of cheap cannabis continues to fuel drug abuse among young people, calling for stronger enforcement alongside prevention and rehabilitation programmes.
As investigations continue, police are expected to pursue possible links to wider distribution networks and determine whether additional suspects were involved.
The DCI urged members of the public to continue sharing information with security agencies, noting that community intelligence remains critical in disrupting drug trafficking operations and safeguarding public safety.
