Kenya Police Seize Cannabis Worth £75,000 in Major Highway Drug Bust
Nakuru, 19 January 2026
Kenyan anti-narcotics officers intercepted 387 kilograms of cannabis valued at 11.6 million shillings during coordinated operations along major transport corridors. The seizures highlight escalating government efforts to combat drug trafficking networks.
Coordinated Highway Operations Target Drug Networks
The Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU), working alongside officers from the Dog Unit, intercepted a silver Toyota Voxy along the Kabarak-Nakuru Road on Monday, 19 January 2026 [1][6]. While the driver managed to escape during the operation, co-driver Dennis Mukungua was arrested at the scene [1][6]. A thorough search of the vehicle revealed 12 green sacks and 12 bales of cannabis with a combined weight of 387 kilograms [1][6]. The seized narcotics carried an estimated street value of KSh 11.61 million, according to police estimates [1][6].
Second Seizure Expands Operation Scope
In a separate operation within the same timeframe, detectives intercepted a Toyota Fielder in the Kamwosor area of Keiyo South constituency [1]. The vehicle’s driver, Vincent Odhiambo, was arrested after officers discovered seven bags of suspected cannabis concealed within the car during their search [1][6]. Odhiambo was subsequently detained at Metkei Police Station pending arraignment, with the recovered drugs forming part of the total KSh 11.61 million haul [1][6]. The coordinated nature of these operations demonstrates the systematic approach authorities are taking to disrupt trafficking networks along Kenya’s transport corridors [6].
Government Intensifies Anti-Drug Campaign
The recent seizures form part of an intensified government crackdown on drug trafficking and abuse across Kenya [1]. President William Ruto announced in early 2026 an ambitious expansion of the DCI’s Anti-Narcotics Unit from its current workforce of 200 officers to approximately 700 personnel [1]. These additional officers are scheduled to receive intensive training similar to that provided to the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit, including advanced forensic and financial investigative capabilities [1]. The Ministry of Interior has identified several ‘big fish’ operating under the cover of legitimate businesses to distribute drugs and illicit brew, signalling a shift from asset seizure to dismantling the financial networks supporting these operations [1].
Judicial System Adapts to Combat Trafficking
The judiciary has reinforced the government’s anti-drug efforts by establishing specialised courts at major points of entry, including airports, ports, and border crossings [1]. These dedicated facilities are designed to fast-track narcotics cases, reducing the time between arrest and prosecution [1]. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has maintained that it operates with zero tolerance for narcotics trafficking, warning that traffickers will face prosecution regardless of their social or economic status [6]. This comprehensive approach, combining enhanced enforcement capabilities with streamlined judicial processes, reflects the government’s recognition of drug trafficking as a significant threat to Kenyan society, particularly affecting the country’s youth [1].