DCI Issues Statement on the Discovery of a Clandestine Drug Laboratory in Namanga
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has clarified details surrounding the discovery of a clandestine drug laboratory in Namanga, dismissing claims that a Mexican cartel had fully operationalized the facility, as reported by Daily Nation publication.
According to a statement released by the DCI, a multi-agency team led by the Anti-Narcotics Unit raided the site on September 12, 2024, following intelligence reports.
The laboratory, located on a 10-acre parcel of land eight kilometers from the Nairobi-Namanga highway, contained drug production equipment, chemicals, and a makeshift chemical store. Investigators also recovered notebooks with lab drawings and chemical formulas, as well as a mobile phone linked to a Mexican suspect.
Arrests and Key Suspects
Authorities reported that six individuals, including foreign nationals, were arrested in connection with the illicit operation. Among them was Betty Mukami Micheni, who was apprehended in Ruiru, Kiambu County, on September 16, 2024. She was allegedly responsible for setting up the laboratory, in collaboration with Agwu Ojukwu, a Nigerian national.
Ojukwu, believed to be the mastermind behind the operation, was arrested at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on October 3, 2024, while attempting to flee the country. Investigators stated that he had business ties in Nigeria, Gabon, South Africa, and China, and was linked to a South American drug cartel. His associate, MBA, Ogwu Ogba, was arrested in Nairobi on October 1, 2024.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Alvarado Israel Vera, a former Mexican police investigator, at JKIA. Vera was allegedly recruited by Ojukwu to oversee the production of synthetic opioids. Two additional suspects, Caroline Wambui Muchira and Francis Maina Gachau, were also detained for their roles in procuring and distributing chemicals.
Companies Implicated, Cartel Network Uncovered
Investigators also cited two Kenyan companies, ENORMED PHARMA LTD and BETLINK SUPPLIES LTD, for their alleged involvement in sourcing and supplying chemicals for the operation.
The investigation revealed that the drug trafficking network extended beyond Kenya, with links to Nigeria, India, Mexico, South Africa, and Gabon. However, authorities confirmed that the cartel had not succeeded in fully launching its activities in Kenya and that no members of the syndicate had been deported.
Government’s Commitment to Drug Control
The National Police Service emphasized its continued collaboration with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in combating drug trafficking. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to dismantling international narcotics networks and maintaining Kenya as a drug-free nation.
