A consignment of precursor chemicals used in the manufacture of narcotic drugs was destroyed at the East African Portland Cement plant in Athi River, Machakos County, marking a decisive step in Kenya’s ongoing war against illicit drug production.
The chemicals were seized in September 2024 following a meticulously coordinated operation in Namanga.
The sting, led by the DCI’s Anti-Narcotics Unit, brought down a transnational network which was in the process of setting up a large-scale drug manufacturing lab targeting both local and international markets.
Speaking on behalf of the Director DCI during the destruction exercise, Mr. Bernard Walumoli, the Director Planning, reaffirmed the Directorate’s unwavering resolve to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking networks and to cut off the supply of illicit substances at their source.
“The destruction of these chemicals sends a clear message; Kenya will not be a safe haven for organised criminal networks involved in the manufacture and distribution of dangerous drugs,” said Mr. Walumoli.
He further noted that the DCI continues to invest in specialised training, modern investigative tools, enhanced forensic capacity, and robust partnerships both locally and internationally, to stay ahead of ever-evolving criminal threats.
The Director of the Anti-Narcotics Unit echoed these sentiments, stressing that the destruction underscores the DCI’s transparency and accountability in handling seized narcotics and related materials.
“By ensuring these chemicals are permanently destroyed, we close the loop on any chance of them finding their way back into society,” he said.
The destruction exercise was conducted under strict environmental and safety standards, in collaboration with officials from the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Government Chemist, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.
The DCI appreciates Drug Enforcement Administration for their support in the fight against illicit drugs in the Country.
The Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga, in a statement read by Prosecution counsel Bramwel Shitsama, lauded the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and the judiciary in ensuring justice, accountability, and public safety.
“Today’s exercise is not just about the disposal of dangerous substances, it is a statement of our collective commitment to uphold the rule of law, safeguard public health, and protect the future of our nation,” said the DPP.
The DPP emphasized that each consignment destroyed symbolizes successful cooperation from the point of arrest and evidence gathering, through prosecution and conviction, to lawful forfeiture.
The DPP further noted that removing these drugs from circulation protects countless young people from addiction, prevents family disintegration, and curbs crime and insecurity linked to drug trafficking.
“Every kilogram destroyed today translates to lives saved and future restored,” he added.
Additionally, the DPP commended NACADA, the Ministry of Health, and civil society partners for their efforts in prevention, education, and rehabilitation initiatives.
“The fight against narcotic drugs is not solely a law enforcement matter, it is a multi-sectoral challenge requiring unity of purpose,” the DPP emphasized. “Only through cooperation among all stakeholders can we build a drug-free Kenya.”
The destruction of the narcotics was hailed as a critical milestone in Kenya’s ongoing campaign against drug trafficking and substance abuse.
The exercise also underscored transparency and accountability within the criminal justice system, reinforcing public confidence that seized drugs are properly handled and never reintroduced into circulation.
The event brought together key stakeholders from the national police service, ODPP, officials from the Anti-Narcotics Unit, the Judiciary and the Kenya Revenue Authority, as well as partners from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).
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