Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have seized 170.8 kilogrammes of cannabis valued at approximately KSh5.1 million following a dramatic road chase along the Malaba-Webuye highway in Bungoma County.
The operation, conducted by detectives from the National Anti-Narcotics Investigations Bureau (NANIB), Bungoma, in collaboration with DCI officers from Webuye West, followed intelligence reports that a white Mazda CX-5 was allegedly transporting narcotic drugs.
According to the DCI, detectives laid an ambush along the busy highway targeting the vehicle, registration number KDY 338F.
However, when the driver spotted the officers, he allegedly sped off, triggering a pursuit that ended in tragedy after the Mazda collided with a red TVS motorcycle, registration number KMFV 109F.
The motorcyclist, identified as Muzungu Munialo, sustained fatal injuries in the crash, while the driver of the Mazda abandoned the vehicle and escaped on foot.
Traffic officers processed the accident scene before detectives conducted a search of the abandoned vehicle, leading to the discovery of suspected narcotics.
A more comprehensive search conducted at the police station uncovered 162 bales of cannabis wrapped in yellow cellotape, weighing 170.8 kilogrammes and with an estimated street value of KSh5,124,000.
Detectives also recovered an additional number plate, KF2 8588, from the back seat of the Mazda. Investigators suspect the plate may have been intended to conceal the vehicle’s identity during the alleged drug trafficking operation.
The vehicle and the seized narcotics have since been handed over to NANIB Bungoma as investigations continue.
DCI Launches Manhunt for Escaped Driver
The DCI has launched a manhunt for the driver who escaped following the fatal collision, saying detectives are pursuing him to ensure he faces justice.
Investigators are also seeking to establish the wider network behind the suspected drug trafficking operation and determine whether other individuals were involved in transporting the narcotics.
In a statement, the DCI extended its condolences to the family, friends and relatives of Munialo following his death.
The agency reiterated its commitment to combating drug trafficking and dismantling criminal networks involved in the distribution of narcotics across the country.