Kenya seizes 454kg of meth in drug crackdown

What the report says

Kenyan police say they have seized 454kg of methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of about $27m, in an operation aimed at international drug trafficking networks. The haul was discovered at the Kenyan coast after intelligence-led work involving anti-narcotics officers from Kenya and Tanzania, according to BBC Africa’s reporting.

Police said the case developed after a suspect was arrested in Tanzania last week and handed over to Kenyan authorities at the border. That suspect was later taken to Msambweni, on Kenya’s coast, where officers found the drugs. BBC Africa reported that the person was allegedly connected to a separate seizure of suspected methamphetamine and cocaine in Tanzania. Three other suspects — two Tanzanians and a Ugandan — were also arrested during the operation.

Authorities said two motor vehicles and a motorcycle were seized as well. The four suspects are in custody and are expected to appear in court, while the drugs and other items are being held as evidence. The police said the wider investigation is continuing and urged the public to share information that could help disrupt trafficking.

The case comes amid growing concern in East Africa about drug smuggling routes. BBC Africa noted that Kenyan officials have recently signaled tougher action against illicit drugs, and regional security analysts have warned that the coast is increasingly used both as a transit corridor and as an entry point for drugs meant for local markets.