In a concerted effort to combat the scourge of drug trafficking in Nairobi, law enforcement agencies have conducted a series of targeted operations resulting in the apprehension of several individuals involved in illicit drug activities across various suburbs.
The recent arrests have shed light on the extent of the narcotics trade in the region and the diverse network of individuals implicated in these illegal operations.
Details of the Arrests:
Ruth Wamboi Maina, a 65-year-old woman known as ‘Shosh‘ or ‘Shosh wa madre,’ was arrested on March 18, 2024, at her retail shop, Wachamka, in the Githurai-Majengo area of Kasarani. She stands accused of peddling heroin, bhang, and illicit brews. Ruth Wamboi was subsequently arraigned before the Kahawa law courts on March 20, 2024.
Margaret Adhiambo Owino and Joyce Akoth Atanasi, both 63 years old, were apprehended on March 15, 2024, by DCI officers in Kware, Ongata Rongai. Their arrest followed a police raid on a drug den allegedly distributing drugs to students from nearby universities such as Multimedia University, Africa Nazarene, and Catholic University.
Eddy Owino, a Kenyan, and Janeth Israel Masaki, a Tanzanian, were arrested alongside Margaret and Joyce for their involvement in packaging drugs for further distribution. The four individuals were presented before the JKIA Law Courts on March 20, 2024.
Florence Wanjiku, known as ‘Mama Esther,’ and her daughter Esther Wambui Wachira were apprehended at their residence in Grogon with a significant quantity of heroin valued at approximately 7.5 million. Esther was also found with heroin in her vehicle, a Nissan Note KDH 690D, which she intended to distribute.
Julius Karomo was arrested within Ruaka estate for peddling drugs to students and young residents. He was caught with cannabis and synthetic drugs aboard his Honda Fit vehicle. Julius appeared in court on March 20, 2024, at the JKIA Law Courts and was granted bail.
Yusuf Juma was arrested on March 19, 2024, in the Hurlingham area of Kilimani with cocaine valued at approximately 1 million. His Nissan Latio vehicle, along with drug paraphernalia, was recovered during the operation.
The recent arrests of these individuals involved in drug trafficking highlight the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle illicit drug networks operating in Nairobi suburbs. These operations serve as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges posed by drug trafficking and the importance of collaborative efforts to combat this menace in the community.