Detectives have seized 170.8 kilogrammes of cannabis with an estimated street value of KSh5.1 million following a dramatic pursuit along the Malaba-Webuye highway in Bungoma County.
The operation, conducted by officers from the National Anti-Narcotics Investigations Bureau (NANIB), Bungoma, in collaboration with detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Webuye West, also resulted in the death of a motorcyclist who was involved in a collision with the suspected drug-laden vehicle.
According to the DCI, the detectives acted on credible intelligence indicating that a white Mazda CX-5, registration number KDY 338F, was allegedly being used to transport narcotic drugs.
The officers subsequently laid an ambush along the Malaba-Webuye road, waiting to intercept the vehicle.
However, when the Mazda approached and the driver noticed the detectives, he reportedly sped off, prompting officers to pursue the vehicle.
The chase ended tragically when the Mazda collided with a red TVS motorcycle, registration number KMFV 109F.
The motorcycle rider, identified as Muzungu Munialo, sustained fatal injuries in the accident. The driver of the Mazda, meanwhile, abandoned the vehicle and escaped from the scene.
Following the accident, traffic officers processed the scene before detectives conducted an initial search of the abandoned Mazda.
During the search, officers discovered suspected narcotic substances inside the vehicle, prompting them to tow it to the police station for a more comprehensive examination.
A subsequent detailed search at the station led to the recovery of 162 bales of cannabis, which had been wrapped in yellow cellotape.
The seized drugs were estimated to have a street value of KSh5,124,000.
Detectives also recovered an additional number plate, registration number KF2 8588, from the back seat of the vehicle. Investigators suspect that the second number plate may have been intended to conceal the vehicle’s identity during the transportation of the illegal substances.
The Mazda CX-5 and the recovered narcotics have since been handed over to NANIB Bungoma for further investigations.
Meanwhile, the DCI has expressed condolences to Munialo’s family, friends and relatives following his death, describing the incident as a tragic loss.
The agency has also vowed to intensify efforts to apprehend the fleeing driver and establish the wider network behind the suspected drug trafficking operation.
The latest seizure comes amid ongoing efforts by security agencies to disrupt drug trafficking networks and prevent the distribution of illegal substances across the country.
The DCI has urged members of the public to share information that could assist in investigations into drug-related crimes.
Anyone with information can report anonymously through the toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000 under the DCI’s #FichuaKwaDCI initiative.
