Police in Uasin Gishu have intercepted a lorry carrying bhang valued at Sh3 million during a pre‑dawn operation in Maili Nne. Two suspects were arrested, and investigations are underway into a suspected drug trafficking ring.
By: Ogonyo Centrine
Police in Uasin Gishu County have intercepted a lorry loaded with bhang valued at over Sh3 million during a pre-dawn operation in the Maili Nne area, following a community tip-off.
The sting operation, led by officers from Baharini Police Station, began around 2 a.m. on Tuesday and culminated in the successful interception of the vehicle two hours later. Upon inspection, authorities uncovered 12 large sacks of cannabis hidden in the lorry’s cargo compartment.
According to Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi, the consignment is believed to have been smuggled in from a neighbouring country and was en route to Likoni, Mombasa, where it was intended for street-level distribution.
Two suspects were arrested at the scene, while a third managed to flee on foot, prompting a manhunt across the county.
“The vehicle is suspected to be part of a larger, well-coordinated drug trafficking ring. We are currently seeking a court order to have it forfeited to the state,” said Mwanthi.
He added that the arrested individuals remain in custody and are expected to be arraigned in court on Thursday.
Police say traffickers are shifting tactics, increasingly using commercial trucks in a bid to evade detection.
“They believe lorries offer better cover, but we are evolving in our methods too,” Mwanthi explained.
To counter the trend, law enforcement is collaborating with the Truck Owners Association to monitor transit routes and cargo. Mwanthi noted that in some cases, vehicle owners may not be aware their trucks are being used to ferry illegal substances.
“We urge truck operators to alert authorities when their vehicles pass through the region,” he said, calling for community vigilance and stronger penalties for drug-related offences. “Drug abuse is ravaging the youth. The courts need to issue harsher sentences to send a clear message.”
County Criminal Investigations Officer Daniel Muleli warned that had the bhang reached its destination in Mombasa, it could have ended up in schools and residential neighbourhoods.
“This is a threat to our children and our future. We must come together as a community to stop this menace,” Muleli urged.
Commander Mwanthi further advised school administrations to partner with police, especially during school openings, suggesting the deployment of sniffer dogs to curb drug infiltration in learning institutions.
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