Kenyan authorities have intercepted a massive shipment of methamphetamine in a high-seas operation, seizing over one tonne of the drug and arresting six suspects. The bust, which was supported by INTERPOL, took place on October 21 when the Kenyan Navy stopped a dhow approximately 340 nautical miles east of Mombasa.
The interception was made possible by intelligence shared between the Regional Narcotics Interagency Fusion Cell in Bahrain and the Regional Coordination Operations Centre in Seychelles. The vessel was subsequently escorted to Mombasa, where a multi-agency command centre was established to oversee the operation.
INTERPOL played a crucial role in coordinating the search and ensuring that evidence handling met international standards. The organization also facilitated cooperation between agencies involved in the operation. Upon inspecting the vessel, authorities discovered 769 packets of crystal meth weighing 1,024 kilograms. Tests conducted by Kenya’s Government Chemist confirmed the drug’s purity at 98%, with an estimated street value of approximately KES 8 billion (USD 63 million).
The six crew members on board the vessel were arrested and are currently facing drug trafficking charges. The investigation is being led by Kenya’s Anti-Narcotics Unit. The successful interception of this massive drug shipment is a significant achievement in the fight against narcotics trafficking in the region.
The operation highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational crime. The collaboration between Kenyan authorities, INTERPOL, and other regional agencies demonstrates the effectiveness of a coordinated approach in disrupting illicit drug trade. As the investigation continues, it is likely that more details will emerge about the origins and intended destination of the seized methamphetamine.
The story underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies to counter the threat posed by illicit drugs. With the global methamphetamine trade valued in billions of dollars, efforts to disrupt supply chains and bring perpetrators to justice are crucial in reducing the harm caused by these substances. Additional information on this operation has been provided by INTERPOL, which has been at the forefront of international efforts to combat narcotics trafficking.