Some of the seized meth at the Indian Ocean
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has refuted claims that some of its personnel stole a portion of narcotics seized during a major multi-agency maritime security operation conducted on October 25, 2025.
According to an official statement from KDF Strategic Communications, security teams intercepted a dhow off the Kenyan coast carrying 1,024 kilograms of methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth.
The narcotics were offloaded and transported ashore under the supervision of a joint security unit.
Reports later emerged alleging that certain KDF officials involved in the operation may have stolen and concealed part of the seized drugs for personal gain.
KDF, however, moved to dispel the rumours, asserting that the full 1,024 kilogrammes remains intact and is currently under round-the-clock protection by a dedicated multi-agency team.
“The entire consignment offloaded ashore remains secure,” the statement read, adding that investigations are ongoing to determine the veracity of the allegations.
KDF confirmed that several personnel suspected of involvement in the alleged theft are under active investigation by the appropriate authorities.
The military emphasized its commitment to accountability and transparency, noting that if any wrongdoing is proven, “appropriate disciplinary and legal measures will be taken in accordance with the law.”
It is not clear what triggered the KDF statement on the issue at this time.
The seizure marked one of the largest maritime narcotics interceptions in recent years and highlights ongoing regional efforts to combat transnational organised crime along the East African coastline.
Six Iranians are facing charges in court over the seizure.
Interpol said it supported Kenyan authorities in a successful maritime operation that led to the seizure of more than one tonne of methamphetamine and the arrest of six suspects aboard a flagless vessel.
The operation came after intelligence was shared between the Regional Narcotics Interagency Fusion Cell (RNIFC) in Bahrain and the Regional Coordination Operations Centre (RCOC) in Seychelles.
Interpol also coordinated operational support from the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), which deployed two officials to help with search operations and communication with crew members.
In total, authorities uncovered 769 packets of a crystal substance weighing 1,024 kg.
Forensic analysis by the government chemist confirmed the substance to be methamphetamine with a purity level of 98%. Experts in Kenya estimate the seizure to be worth more than Sh8.2 billion (USD 63 million).
Six crew members were arrested and are facing drug trafficking charges.
Investigations are ongoing under Kenya’s Anti-Narcotics Unit.
Officials said the operation highlights the importance of international cooperation and information sharing in addressing maritime drug trafficking and strengthening regional security across the Indian Ocean.
