Mombasa – The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has praised its ongoing cooperation with Kenyan law enforcement, signaling plans to deepen joint efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks along the country’s coast.
During a visit to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) in Mombasa on Wednesday, DEA Country Attaché Karl Ash expressed confidence in Kenya’s resolve to combat transnational narcotics crime. He emphasized that sustained collaboration is critical for confronting complex drug trafficking cases.
“This partnership continues to show results. We look forward to strengthening technical cooperation and joint enforcement operations,” Ash stated.
Ash was joined by officials from the US Embassy and Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The team reviewed current strategies and reaffirmed the need for close coordination in prosecuting cross-border drug cases.
Kenya’s coastal region has remained a key transit point for international drug routes, prompting authorities to step up security measures and intelligence-sharing with global partners.
Acting Coast Regional Coordinator Kernael Nyawinda stressed the urgency for improved capacity through joint training programs with the Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU).
“We must enhance investigative capabilities and ensure every case is prosecution-guided,” Nyawinda said.
Head of the Anti-Narcotics Unit Samuel Laboso echoed the call for efficiency in securing convictions, noting that timely prosecution remains essential to disrupting trafficking networks.
“Every successful conviction sends a strong message. Collaboration between investigators and prosecutors must remain focused and deliberate,” Laboso said.
Kenya has expanded cooperation with global enforcement agencies in recent years, with the DEA providing technical support, training, and intelligence exchange. The Mombasa meeting aimed to evaluate ongoing cases and explore new methods for tracking cartel movements and financial flows tied to narcotics.
The renewed cooperation follows multiple joint operations that have led to arrests and asset seizures across East Africa. Officials say the partnership remains central to regional stability and public safety.
