Nairobi, February 24- In a significant win against drug trafficking, authorities in Mombasa incinerated over 99kg of heroin and 997g of cocaine at Bamburi Cement Factory. The tightly secured operation was overseen by senior court officials, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Government Chemist, and top police commanders.
The narcotics, valued at Ksh297 million, were seized in high-profile operations targeting both local and international drug syndicates in the coastal region. Among the destroyed drugs were those linked to key convictions, including a 2018 case involving Fatuma Ahmed Ali and Swaleh Yusuf Ahmed, who were arrested in Kikambala Estate, Kilifi County, with 91.7kg of heroin and 997g of cocaine. Swaleh Yusuf died during trial, leaving Fatuma to face justice alone.
On November 19, 2024, Fatuma was sentenced to 40 years in prison and fined Ksh825.6 million, sending a strong message to traffickers in the region. Another major conviction was that of Maimuna Jumanne Amir, who was caught at Moi International Airport, Mombasa, with 5.8kg of heroin worth Ksh17.6 million. She received a 30-year jail term.
Other traffickers, including Juma Mwanyota and Abdulmajid Msallam Timamu, were also prosecuted, receiving 13-year and 15-year sentences, respectively.
With more cases progressing in court, law enforcement agencies have intensified their crackdown on drug smuggling, particularly along the coastal region, a notorious hub for illicit trade.
