The recent seizure of narcotics worth Sh8.2 billion at the Port of Mombasa is a stark reminder of how deeply drug trafficking networks have penetrated Kenya. Six foreign nationals were arrested in what ranks among the country’s largest narcotics busts.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations must now move with speed to uncover the full network behind this shipment.
For years, drug abuse was viewed as a problem confined to a few coastal towns and parts of Nairobi. That is no longer the case.
Drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin can now be found in small trading centres and major cities. Young people are the most affected, with addiction fuelling crime, mental health crises and family breakdowns. The country is paying a high social and economic cost.
Other countries have shown that victory is possible. Nations like Portugal drastically reduced drug-related harm through a mix of strict law enforcement, rehabilitation and community education.
Thailand, on the other hand, strengthened its border surveillance and cracked down on trafficking syndicates while expanding rehabilitation centres and public education campaigns aimed at young people. These countries have proved that the drug problem is not insurmountable when government agencies, communities and families work together.
Kenya can learn from such examples and adopt a comprehensive approach that combines policing with prevention and treatment. Drug cartels thrive when institutions are weak and investigations stall. This is a moment for the DCI and all law enforcement agencies to prove their resolve.
Quote of the day: “In pursuing reform, we have to navigate uncharted waters. We may also have to confront protracted problems because we will have to shake up vested interests.” —Chinese Premier Li Keqiang died on October 27, 2023
