Migori, Kenya — A man believed to be part of a major drug trafficking ring was arrested on Thursday in Migori County after police seized a massive consignment of bhang worth more than Ksh.13 million.
The suspect, 32-year-old Edwin Okondo Nyagaga, was intercepted by officers from Oruba Police Station while driving along the Giribe-Masara road in a black Toyota Kluger, registration number KBS 517N.
Inside the vehicle, police discovered eight sacks of bhang, weighing a total of 457.6 kilogrammes. The street value of the haul is estimated at Ksh.13.7 million, according to police reports.
“We acted on credible intelligence from members of the public,” said a senior officer involved in the operation. “The suspect appeared to have been using multiple number plates to avoid detection.”
Police recovered four different number plates KBP 716H, KBT 673F, KBW 341T, and KBX 142P hidden in the car. Authorities believe the plates were used to disguise the vehicle during previous drug runs.
Mr. Okondo, the drugs, and the vehicle were all taken to Oruba Police Station, where he is being held pending further investigation and arraignment.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) described the seizure as one of the largest in recent months in the region. It comes amid rising concerns over drug trafficking routes in western Kenya, which law enforcement officials say are becoming more active and complex.
Officials from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) have repeatedly warned of increased drug circulation in rural areas, including Migori, due to growing demand and porous borders.
If convicted, Mr. Okondo could face long-term imprisonment under Kenya’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act.
As police continue to investigate, they are urging members of the public to report suspicious activity.
“This was a joint effort with the community. We thank them and urge continued vigilance,” the officer added.
