VIHIGA, Kenya — Detectives have arrested two suspects and recovered a large consignment of suspected contraband, including uncustomized cigarettes and government-subsidised fertiliser, during an intelligence-led operation in Vihiga County.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said detectives from Luanda Police Station, working jointly with officers from the DCI Headquarters Operations Unit, raided premises in Mwichio Township, Emuhaya Sub-County, believed to be operating as a hub for illicit trade.
According to the DCI, the premises were linked to a suspect popularly known as “Moi”, who is believed to be a key figure in a network involved in the distribution of uncustomized cigarettes and the diversion of government-subsidised agricultural inputs.
During the operation, detectives recovered 36 boxes of uncustomized Supermatch King Size cigarettes containing approximately 6,000 cigarette sticks, as well as two boxes of Oris cigarettes reportedly marked for export.
Police also recovered 50 bags of 50-kilogramme Government of Kenya fertiliser supplied through the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) and manufactured by OCP Company.
Other items seized included five bales of plastic bags, 19 bales of Nice Flat Bags (5×8) containing 200 pieces each, and 90 packets of assorted-colour Rizzla rolling papers.
The DCI identified the two suspects arrested during the raid as Ruth Ongachi and Shem Amianda. The pair remain in police custody pending processing and arraignment in court.
All the recovered items were transported to the Vihiga County DCI headquarters, where they have been secured as exhibits.
Investigators have launched further inquiries to establish the source of the suspected contraband, trace the distribution network and identify other individuals believed to be involved in the alleged criminal enterprise.
In a statement, the DCI reaffirmed its commitment to combating illicit trade and dismantling organised criminal networks involved in economic crimes.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations remains steadfast in dismantling criminal networks involved in contraband and illicit trade. Members of the public are encouraged to continue sharing information that will help bring economic offenders to justice,” the agency said.