Detectives from the Anti-Narcotics Unit in Malindi are on the hunt for a suspected drug trafficker who narrowly escaped a police raid at his store, leaving behind cannabis valued at Sh2.5 million.
The suspect managed to evade capture after spotting the approaching officers and fleeing the scene.
According to a police report, the raid was conducted following tips from local residents who reported the suspect’s involvement in illegal drug dealings.
During the search of the store, officers recovered 86 kilograms of bhang stashed in four large sacks.
“The recovered narcotics were taken to Malindi Police Station for safe custody as exhibits,” the report stated.
As the manhunt for the trafficker continues, police have appealed to the public for any information that could lead to his arrest.
Authorities are urging citizens to report any “suspicious characters or activities” to help create a safe and secure, drug-free environment.
This incident comes just days after a significant drug bust in Mombasa, where police arrested two suspected traffickers and seized bhang worth Sh13 million.
The operation, based on a public tip-off, took place at the Mariakani weighbridge. Officers discovered 16 sacks and 226 large sticks of cannabis sativa inside the suspects’ vehicle.
A hidden motor vehicle number plate was also found under the driver’s seat.
The Mombasa suspects and the seized narcotics were transported to Moi International Airport Police Station for further investigation.
The government chemist later confirmed the substances to be cannabis sativa, weighing a total of 456 kilograms.
Authorities are intensifying their efforts to crack down on drug trafficking in the region, and community cooperation is being emphasized as key to these ongoing operations.
