By Nuru Salim
Police in Kilifi County have arrested a suspected drug trafficker in a major crackdown that saw the recovery of five sacks of bhang with an estimated street value of over KSh 4 million.
The suspect, identified as David Otieno Mairo, was apprehended on Sunday at the Broadway Apartment Hotel in the outskirts of Mtwapa town following an intelligence-led operation by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and local police.
According to Kilifi South Sub-County Police Commander Hassan Kochale, the suspect had been on the police radar for several months.
“Our officers from the DCI got information that there was a vehicle approaching Mtwapa suspected to be ferrying drugs. We traced the car and found it parked at the hotel. Upon searching it, they recovered five bags stuffed with bhang,” Kochale said.
The vehicle in question, a Toyota Alphard bearing registration number KBP 235L, was found to have fake plates. Authorities confirmed that the actual registration number of the vehicle is KDR 973C.
Investigations revealed that Mairu is believed to be one of the main suppliers of cannabis in the Coast region, with pending cases in Diani and Kwale.
Kochale revealed that the suspect’s spouse is also under investigation, facing similar drug trafficking charges in an ongoing case before the Kwale Court. Authorities believe the couple operated in close collaboration, forming a criminal partnership at the heart of a growing drug network.
“We believe this arrest is a big step forward in dismantling a drug trafficking network that has long plagued the Coast region. The fight is far from over, but this is a significant victory,” said Kochale while applauding his police force.
DCI officer Leonard Kurgat, who led the operation, emphasized the broader implications of drug trafficking on community safety. “Drug abuse has contributed heavily to rising insecurity in Mtwapa. These drugs cause those who use them to lose their minds and make poor, immoral decisions like causing havoc to the community.” Kurgat stated.
He warned other traffickers that law enforcement agencies have detailed intelligence and networks in place that will soon bring more suspects to book.
As investigations continue, the suspect remains in custody and is expected to be arraigned in court on 21st May.
