- A cunningly orchestrated bid to sneak 57 cocaine pellets to Madagascar was foiled yesterday at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, resulting in the apprehension of five individuals
- The botched venture came to light when anti-narcotics agents intercepted 32-year-old Apoko Damaris Adhiambo, who had surreptitiously stashed the contraband in her undergarments
- The interception unfolded at 10:30 pm in Terminal A1’s primary screening zone as Adhiambo endeavored to board Kenya Airways Flight KQ 256 destined for Antananarivo, Madagascar
A meticulously planned attempt to smuggle 57 pellets of cocaine to Madagascar was thwarted yesterday at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, leading to the arrest of five individuals involved in the trafficking operation.
The failed endeavor unfolded when anti-narcotics detectives intercepted Apoko Damaris Adhiambo, 32, who had concealed the illicit substances in her undergarments.
The Interception occurred at 10:30 pm at Terminal A1’s central screening area as Adhiambo attempted to board Kenya Airways Flight KQ 256 bound for Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Utilizing advanced body scanning technology, vigilant officers detected anomalies around Adhiambo’s pelvic region, prompting a thorough search that uncovered over 600 grams of cocaine ingeniously hidden in her clothing.
Subsequent tests confirmed the presence of the illegal narcotic.
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During interrogation, Adhiambo disclosed that she had been recruited by a Ugandan national named Harriet Asaba, residing in Nairobi.
Employing sophisticated forensic methods, authorities swiftly apprehended Asaba from her location on Accra Road in Nairobi’s CBD, marking a significant breakthrough in dismantling the trafficking syndicate.
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The investigation then led officers to the Free Area Hotel building and the VIP Beauty Shop, where a meticulous search revealed an additional 33 pellets of crack cocaine.
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Among those apprehended were Nangonzi Shirah, a Ugandan national, along with Esther Wanjiru, 24, and Sophia Kathambi, also aged 24.
The presumptive test on the seized contraband confirmed its identity as cocaine, with an estimated weight of approximately 396 grams.
While legal proceedings have commenced against the arrested suspects, law enforcement agencies are collaborating with Interpol to track down the intended recipients of the illicit drugs in Antananarivo.
The bust underscores the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and underscores the importance of public cooperation in reporting such criminal activities.
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In a statement issued by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), citizens were urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking.
The public was assured that anonymity would be maintained, emphasizing the slogan: “Usiogope!” (Swahili for “Do not fear”).
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The DCI encourages individuals with information on drug trafficking or other criminal activities to contact the toll-free hotline at 0800 722 203, emphasizing that every piece of intelligence plays a crucial role in combating illicit drug trade.