Navy intercepts KSh 8.2 billion meth shipment off Mombasa coast
By Chemtai Kirui || Kass Digital
NAIROBI, Oct. 27 — Kenya’s navy and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have intercepted a stateless vessel carrying 1,024 kg of methamphetamine valued at approximately KSh 8.2 billion, about 630 kilometres off the coast of Mombasa, authorities said.
The vessel, named Mash Allah, was intercepted during a maritime patrol in the Indian Ocean and escorted to the Port of Mombasa under armed guard. A multi-agency team searched the vessel and recovered 769 packages of methamphetamine hidden in several compartments.
Six Iranian nationals — Jasem Darzadeh, Nadeem Jadgal, Imran Baloch, Hassan Baloch, Rahim Bakshi and Imtiaz Daryayi — were arrested on board, the DCI said. All suspects are in custody in Mombasa and are being processed ahead of arraignment.
Deputy Navy Commander Rear Admiral Sankale Kiswaa confirmed the operation, saying the vessel was intercepted east of Mombasa and safely escorted to port.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen described the seizure as the largest methamphetamine bust ever recorded along the East African coast, calling it a major breakthrough in combatting synthetic drug trafficking. He urged stronger regional maritime intelligence and cooperation.
DCI officials said investigations are now focusing on the origin of the drugs, trafficking routes and the intended final destination. Security sources believe the consignment was likely destined for international markets, using Kenyan waters as a transit corridor.
Legal analysts say the interception may lead to tougher maritime enforcement, intelligence-sharing with neighbouring states and increased onshore crackdowns on drug networks.
A joint task force involving the navy, DCI and international partners has been set up to trace the network behind the consignment. The seized narcotics are being held as evidence pending forfeiture and destruction.
Meanwhile, health officials warned that rising use of synthetic drugs along Kenya’s coast, particularly among youths in informal settlements, remains a growing public health concern.
