DESTRUCTION OF CLANDESTINE LABORATORY IN THE SEIZURE OF PRECURSOR CHEMICALS AT NAMANGA

BY ERIC ABUGA

A consignment of precursor chemicals used in the manufacture of narcotic drugs has been destroyed at the East African Portland Cement plant in Athi River, Machakos County, marking a decisive step in Kenya’s ongoing war against illicit drug production.

The chemicals were seized in September 2024 following a meticulously coordinated operation in Namanga. 

The sting, led by the DCI's Anti-Narcotics Unit, brought down a transnational network which was in the process of setting up a large-scale drug manufacturing lab targeting both local and international markets.

Speaking on behalf of the Director DCI during the destruction exercise, Bernard Walumoli, the Director Planning, reaffirmed the Directorate’s unwavering resolve to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking networks and to cut off the supply of illicit substances at their source.

"The destruction of these chemicals sends a clear message; Kenya will not be a safe haven for organised criminal networks involved in the manufacture and distribution of dangerous drugs,” said Walumoli.

He further noted that the DCI continues to invest in specialised training, modern investigative tools, enhanced forensic capacity, and robust partnerships both locally and internationally, to stay ahead of ever-evolving criminal threats.

The Director of the Anti-Narcotics Unit echoed these sentiments, stressing that the destruction underscores the DCI’s transparency and accountability in handling seized narcotics and related materials.

"By ensuring these chemicals are permanently destroyed, we close the loop on any chance of them finding their way back into society,” he said.

The destruction exercise was conducted under strict environmental and safety standards, in collaboration with officials from the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Government Chemist, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.

The DCI appreciates Drug Enforcement  Administration for their support in the fight against illicit drugs in the Country.

The operation stands as a powerful statement of the Government’s zero-tolerance stance on narcotics, and a stern warning to criminal cartels attempting to exploit Kenya’s borders for illegal trade.