By Benadeta Mwaura - Reporter
Kenya, January 14 2026 - Detectives from the AntiNarcotics Unit (ANU) of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested a 42yearold suspected drug trafficker and seized heroin with an estimated street value of KSh 1.19 million in an intelligence led operation in Nakuru County.
The suspect, identified as Ephantus Kariuki Mwangi, was intercepted by ANU officers while riding a motorcycle, registration number KMEC 785W, with luggage that raised suspicion during routine surveillance. A search uncovered 397 grams of heroin concealed for transport, along with two syringes and needles, ten rolls of bhang, and three packets of Supermatch cigarettes.
Investigators believe the narcotics were being transported as part of an active drug supply run, potentially headed to distribution networks in the region. The arrest effectively disrupted an ongoing trafficking operation, the DCI said in a statement, highlighting the unit’s strategic use of intelligence led operations to combat the illicit drug trade.
The DCI reaffirmed its zero tolerance stance on narcotics trafficking, emphasising ongoing multiagency collaboration to dismantle organised drug networks across Kenya. Officers are now completing investigations ahead of the suspect’s formal arraignment in court.
National Crime and Security reports show that heroin remains one of several high priority targets for Kenya’s law enforcement, alongside cocaine and other controlled substances. According to recent official data, narcotics seizures, including heroin, are a persistent challenge, with multiple arrests and ongoing prosecutions reflecting the government’s intensified crackdown on drug syndicates.
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The arrest in Nakuru follows other highprofile cases, such as a 2025 Busia prosecution where a woman received a 50year sentence for trafficking nearly 4 kg of heroin, valued at over KSh 11.8 million, underscoring the severe legal consequences of narcotics offences under Kenyan law.
Authorities continue to urge members of the public to report suspicious activities through official channels, including the DCI’s tollfree hotline and the #FichuaKwaDCI WhatsApp platform. The drive aims to strengthen community engagement in tackling drug trafficking while ensuring informant anonymity and safety.
Kariuki remains in custody as detectives finalise forensic analysis and build a case for prosecution under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act, which carries stringent penalties for trafficking and distribution of controlled substances.
