DCI confirms discovery of Mexican cartel-linked drug lab in Namanga, says it was dismantled
The DCI emphasised that the criminal network had been effectively disrupted before it could commence production.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has acknowledged the discovery of an illegal drug laboratory linked to a Mexican cartel in Namanga, Kajiado County, but maintains that the syndicate did not succeed in operationalising its activities as it was dismantled.
In a statement on Wednesday, the agency said on September 12, 2024, a multi-agency team led by the Anti-Narcotics Unit acted on intelligence and discovered a clandestine drug lab on a 10-acre parcel of land, approximately eight kilometres from the Nairobi-Namanga highway.
More To Read
- DCI seeks to detain police officer who allegedly shot and killed colleague in Ruaraka
- National Treasury injects Sh6.3 billion into Haiti mission, DCI upgrades
- DCI warns Kenyans against obstructing officers on duty after mob prevents arrest in Kirinyaga
- Detectives arrest varsity student duping Kenyans he can alter KCSE results
“Two iron-sheet structures were found—one containing laboratory apparatus and chemicals, and another serving as a chemical store, kitchen, and sleeping area,” the statement said.
It noted that the discovery prompted further investigations, leading to the arrest of several suspects believed to have played key roles in setting up the facility.
The first suspect, Betty Mukami Micheni, was apprehended in Ruiru, Kiambu County, on September 16, 2024.
“Authorities believe she was instrumental in setting up the lab in collaboration with Nigerian national Agwu Ojukwu. Documents linking her to the purchase of land, chemicals, and equipment found at the site were seized from her residence,” the DCI said.
Subsequent investigations also revealed a strong connection between Mukami, Ojukwu, and his brother, MBA Agwu Ogba. The agency added that on October 1, 2024, Ogba was arrested in the Lavington area of Nairobi.
Two days later, a stop order was issued against Ojukwu at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), leading to his arrest on October 3 as he attempted to flee the country.
“Authorities identified him as the mastermind behind the operation, with links to drug cartels spanning South America, Nigeria, Gabon, South Africa, and China,” the DCI said.
Further police efforts led to the arrest of Alvarado Israel Vera, a former member of the Mexican police investigative unit, who was captured at JKIA while attempting to return to Mexico.
According to the DCI, Alvarado, along with two other Mexican nationals who are still at large, had been brought in by Ojukwu for their expertise in manufacturing synthetic opioids, specifically methamphetamine.
Authorities said the number of arrested suspects rose to six following the apprehension of Caroline Wambui Muchira and Francis Maina Gachau, who allegedly facilitated the procurement and distribution of chemicals.
Two Kenyan companies—Enormed Pharma Ltd and Betlink Supplies Ltd—were also cited in court for their role in sourcing and supplying laboratory chemicals used in the operation.
The DCI emphasised that the criminal network had been effectively disrupted before it could commence production.
“We clarify that the drug cartel did not succeed in operationalising their illegal activities in the country and that no members of the syndicate have been deported for trial elsewhere,” the DCI said.
The agency reiterated that it is committed to combating drug trafficking in collaboration with international partners, particularly the US Drug Enforcement Administration.
“The unwavering commitment of the National Police Service, alongside our close cooperation with the US Drug Enforcement Administration, plays a crucial role in thwarting the activities of drug traffickers both within our country and throughout the region,” the DCI said.
“We are dedicated to this fight and will continue to work tirelessly toward our goal of establishing a drug-free nation.”
Top Stories Today
