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Coastal Region DCI boss recalled in anti-drug efforts

Wangari Gachoki, NACADA's North Eastern regional boss, said drugs and other substances were being combined with miraa (khat). (Photo: File/ Yasuyoshi Chiba/ AFP)

By Farhiya Hussein | 01 Mar 2024

Ali Bule Samatar will be replaced by former Kisii County Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO) Adan Guyo.

The Coast Region DCI boss Ali Bule Samatar has been summoned back to DCI headquarters following Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's sharp statements on law enforcement's involvement in tackling the area's drug crisis.

This quick recall indicates a renewed focus on combating the drug problem, emphasising the importance of coordination between local authorities and the broader community in stemming the tide of substance misuse.

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Ali Bule Samatar will be replaced by former Kisii County Criminal Investigations Officer (CCIO) Adan Guyo.

Guyo has been named the new Coast Regional Criminal Investigations Officer (RCIO).

Before his deployment to the Coast, Guyo was based at the DCI headquarters investigation branch.

The reshuffle comes against the backdrop of the ongoing war on drug trafficking cartels.

Ali Bule Samatar was among other officers who moved in Mohamed Amin’s first reshuffle as DCI boss in 2022.

He was moved from DCI boss Uasin Gishu County to DCI boss Coast region.

While in Mombasa this week during a security conference regarding the fight against alcohol and drug abuse, DP Gachagua warned that police officers are not doing enough to combat drug problems in the region.

“To our officers, we are not doing well. In Mombasa, Lamu, and Kilifi, drugs are being sold and the Chiefs, OCS, and DCI officers know who are selling drugs. We have a problem with our courts and we have sent our concerns to the judiciary,” he said.

Gachagua noted that while Mombasa, and indeed the Coast Region, was mainly a transit point for illegal drugs and substances, it has since evolved into a profitable destination with a bustling market.

“Hard drugs including heroin and cocaine have permeated the Region, with the most affected Counties being Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi and Lamu,” said the DP.

Nationally, about 26,673 people inject themselves with heroin, cocaine and other drugs. Of these, 89 per cent are youthful men.

Mombasa, Kwale and Kilifi are among the top five counties in the country accounting for 43 per cent of people who inject themselves with drugs.

“State officers abetting the illegal trade have no room, the choice is to work or walk away. We are ready to send people to jail including officers allegedly stealing alcohol and selling it.”